Furan derivatives—III : Synthesis and properties of β-ketosulphides and sulphur derivatives of chalcones of 5-nitrofuran series

A series of 2-(5-nitro-2-furyl)-2-oxoethylarylsulphides 3a–3h has been prepared by the reaction of 5-nitro-2-furylbromomethylketone 1 with 4-substituted thiophenols 2a–2h. The determined rates of carbanion formation (log k'), pK values as well as ¹H NMR data show that in these compounds transmission of polar effects by the substituents through the -S- group occurs. Compounds 3a–3h react with aromatic aldehydes affording sulphur chalcone derivativěs of the 5-nitrofuran series 4a–4h. ¹H NMR, IR and UV spectra of prepared compounds are discussed.