New three-component condensation reaction: synthesis of 1-[(alkylthio)(phenyl)methyl]-naphthalene-2-ol catalyzed by bromodimethylsulfonium bromide (BDMS)

Bromodimethylsulfonium bromide acts as an efficient catalyst for one pot three component condensation reactions of aldehydes, 2-naphthol, and thiols in acetonitrile at room temperature. Various aliphatic and aromatic thiols undergo conjugate addition with in situ generated enone in acetonitrile and provide good yields. The main features of this procedure are mild reaction conditions, good yields, and operational simplicity.