Formation of 1,4,2-Dithiazolidines or 1,3-Thiazetidines from 1,1-Dichloro-2-nitroethene and Phenylthiourea Derivatives

A method for preparation of 1,4,2-dithiazolidine or 1,3-thiazetidine heterocycles was developed by reactions of phenylthioureas with 1,1-dichloro-2-nitroethene. The solvent has a significant influence on the type of product formation. 1,4,2-Dithiazolidines were formed in the aprotic solvent chloroform, while in the protic solvent ethanol, 1,3-thiazetidines were the main products.