Flash vacuum pyrolysis (F.V.P.) of 1,2,4-benzotriazine derivatives

Flash vacuum pyrolysis of 3-methylsulfanyl-1,2,4-benzotriazine N-oxide, 3-methylsulfanyl-1,2,4-benzotriazine, and 3-phenyl-1,2,4-benzotriazine are described. The N-oxide derivative underwent deoxygenation between 500 and 600°C, whereas at higher temperatures both methylsulfanyl compounds, besides yielding the same products, also gave benzimidazole formed by an independent mechanism. Transformation of these derivatives between 600 and 750°C led to formation of a complex reaction mixture indicating the radical nature of the processes. The phenyl substituted derivative was studied between 575 and 650°C and afforded benzonitrile and traces of biphenylene.