Alkynylation of Thiols with Ethynylbenziodoxolone (EBX) Reagents: alpha- or beta- pi-Addition?

The alkynylation of thiols with EthynylBenziodoXolone (EBX) reagents is a fast and chemoselective method for the synthesis of thioalkynes. Combined experimental and computational studies are reported, which led to the identification of a new mechanism for this reaction, proceeding via an initial sulfur iodine interaction followed by beta-addition, alpha-elimination, and a 1,2-shift. Depending on the substituent on the alkyne, this mechanism can be favored over the previously disclosed concerted alpha-addition rti pathway