Mechanochemical Approach for Metal-Free Regioselective C5-Sulfenylation of Imidazo[2,1-b]Thiazoles.

The development of sustainable and selective methodologies for heterocyclic functionalization remains a key challenge in organic synthesis. In this study, a novel, metal-free bis(trifluoroacetoxy)iodo]benzene-mediated strategy for the regioselective C5-sulfenylation of imidazo[2,1-b]thiazoles using aryl methyl sulfides under mechanochemical conditions is reported. This solvent-free approach offers a rapid, efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to current methods, achieving yields of up to 86% while completely avoiding hazardous solvents. The method exhibits broad substrate scope, with tolerance to both electron-donating and electron-withdrawing functional groups. This mechanochemical strategy provides a valuable synthetic tool for the functionalization of imidazo[2,1-b]thiazole scaffold, with potential applications in medicinal and materials chemistry.