Nickel-catalyzed synthesis of aryl sulfides from aromatic primary amides and thioethers via aryl exchange strategy.

• Aryl exchange between primary amide and thioether for aryl sulfide synthesis. • Thioether as sulfide source instead of toxic thiols. • Activation of amide through a non-decarbonylative strategy. Herein, a nickel-catalyzed synthesis of aryl sulfide through a formal aryl exchange reaction between aromatic amide and thioether was reported. This work not only realized the activation of non-activated primary amides through an unconventional dehydration strategy, but also provided a practical and facile method for aryl sulfide synthesis without odorous and toxic thiols. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]