The metal-free method for the chemoselective S- and O-alkylation of thiols, and carboxylic acids using alkylthianthrenium salts was disclosed. This simple, sustainable protocol operates in water under ambient conditions, exhibits excellent chemoselectivity and broad scope. Its utility is demonstrated by one-pot reactions and isotopic labeling, offering a valuable platform for forming C-S and C-O bonds.
Yang et al. (Fri,) studied this question.