Domino Vilsmeier-Haack/ring closure sequences: a facile synthesis of 3-chlorobenzo[b]thiophene-2-carbaldehydes

Vilsmeier's reagent treatment of substituted diphenacyl sulfides or diphenacyl disulfides has led to the formation of a series of benzfused 3-chlorothiophene-2-carbaldehydes by a Domino Vilsmeier-Haack reaction/ring closure sequence, opening a new route for the synthesis of 3-chlorobenzo[b]thiophene-2-carbaldehydes and their benzfused analogues. A plausible mechanism has been proposed.