It is a derivative of the parent heterocycle called dithiin.

Like other 1,4-dithiins but unlike its oxygen analog dibenzodioxin, the shape of thianthrene is not planar.

[3][4][5] Thianthrene can be prepared by treating benzene with disulfur dichloride in the presence of aluminium chloride.

[6] Thianthrene was first synthesized by John Stenhouse by dry distillation of sodium benzenesulfonate.

[7] Thianthrene is oxidized by sulfuric acid forming a red radical cation.