Copper-catalyzed direct thiolation of azoles with aliphatic thiols

Cu(II)-catalyzed direct thiolation of azoles with thiols is described via intermolecular C–S bond formation/C–H functionalization under oxidative conditions. Both aryl thiols and aliphatic thiols are used as coupling partners, and furnished the thiolation products in moderate to good yields. The reaction is compatible with a wide range of heterocycles including oxazole, thiazole, imidazole and oxadiazole.