Straightforward access to α-thiocyanoketones and thiazoles from sulfoxonium ylides.

Efficient, versatile, and metal-free strategies for synthesizing α-thiocyanoketones and thiazoles from β-ketosulfoxonium ylides and ammonium thiocyanate have been described. Due to its simplicity, benign reaction conditions, excellent chemoselectivity, and high yield, this method represents a unique approach for divergent synthesis. Finally, the potential value of the developed methods is demonstrated large-scale reactions and synthesis of Fanetizole, an anti-inflammatory drug.