Cu-Catalyzed Electrophilic Disulfur Transfer: Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Disulfides

An efficient electrophilic persulfuration reaction leading to unsymmetrical disulfides and polysulfides has been developed. Various nucleophiles, including aryl boronic acids, β-keto esters, and thiols, can be used as substrates. The notable features of this method include very simple and practical conditions, general scope, and inexpensive copper catalysts.