Iodine-Promoted Cascade Redox Cyclization to Access 2-Arylbenzothiazoles Using Elemental Sulfur

A straightforward and efficient method has been developed to access a variety of benzothiazole derivatives via cascade reductive annulation. Iodine mediated, one-pot three-component reaction of o-chloronitroarenes, aryl aldehydes, and elemental sulfur effectively produce benzothiazoles. Moreover, the metal-free strategy allows the facile synthesis of diverse 2-substituted benzothiazoles through multiple carbon–heteroatom bonds in good yields. The present protocol features a greener approach, readily accessible reagents, broad substrate scope, high product yields, and operational simplicity.