Rapid Ullmann-Type Synthesis of Aryl Sulfides Using a Copper(I) Catalyst and Ligand under Microwave Irradiation.

Abstract A rapid and efficient method for C–S bond formation under microwave irradiation is reported. The reaction of both electron-rich and electron-poor aryl halides with thiols using copper(I) iodide as a catalyst is facilitated by the addition of 2 equiv of trans -cyclohexane-1,2-diol as ligand in the presence of K 2 CO 3 as base in 2-propanol. Microwave irradiation at 120 °C for 3 h gives the corresponding aryl sulfide in a procedure amenable to library production.