Visible-light-driven synthesis of 2-substituted benzothiazoles using CdS nanosphere as heterogenous recyclable catalyst

This Letter reports simple, green, and efficient synthesis of mesoporous CdS nanosphere (CdSNS) and its application as heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of 2-substituted benzothiazole. We report, for the first time, the synthesis of 2-substituted benzothiazoles from various aryl and alkyl aldehydes under visible light irradiation at room temperature. CdSNS catalyst generated in water demonstrates excellent catalytic activity for both the alkyl and aryl aldehydes, with good recyclability. The reaction yield is high for the electron-donating and electron withdrawing substituents as well as heterocyclic aldehydes with good turn over number (TON) and turnover frequency (TOF). (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.