Catalyst-free dehydrative S(N)1-type reaction of indolyl alcohols with diverse nucleophiles on water

A green and efficient dehydrative S(N)1-type reaction of indolyl alcohols with diverse nucleophiles was developed using water as the solvent, affording versatile 3-indolyl derivatives in high yields. The advantages of being catalyst-free, environmentally benign, and having a wide substrate scope and easy workup make it a promising method for preparation of indolyl compounds.