Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Herbicidal Activities of 2-Cyanoacrylates Containing 1,3,4-Thiadiazole Moieties

Three series of novel 2‐cyanoacrylates 7a – 7f , 9a – 9f , 10a – 10f containing 1,3,4‐thiadiazole ring moieties were synthesized as herbicidal inhibitors of photosystem II (PS II) electron transportation. Their structures were clearly verified by ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, elemental analysis (or HRMS analysis) and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Bioassay showed that a suitable group at the 3‐position of acrylates was essential for high herbicidal activity. In particular, compound 7e showed the best herbicidal activities and gave 100% inhibitory activity against rape and amaranth pigweed at a dose of 1.5 kg/ha. Introduction of substituent with higher polarity such as sulfinyl or sulfonyl to the 5‐position of 1,3,4‐thiadiazole decreased herbicidal activities.