Synthesis of bio-based 2-thiothiophenes.

While the synthesis of bio-based compounds containing carbon, oxygen and (to a lesser extent) nitrogen is well studied, the production of organosulfur compounds from biomass has received virtually no attention, despite their widespread application throughout the chemical industry. Herein, we demonstrate that a range of bio-based 2-thiothiophenes are available from the biopolymer cellulose, proving that functionally diverse small-molecule organosulfurs can be prepared independent of fossil carbon. This article is part of the theme issue 'Bio-derived and bioinspired sustainable advanced materials for emerging technologies (part 2)'.