Transformation of arylboronic acids with sodium thiosulfate into organodisulfides catalyzed by a recyclable polyoxometalate-based Cr(iii) catalyst

Abstract

Organo disulfides represent an abundant class of compounds in chemical biology, pharmaceutical fields, and industry. They are traditionally synthesized by the oxidation of mercaptan in the presence of an organic ligand supported metal catalyst or toxic oxidants under harsh conditions. Here, we disclose a highly-efficient pathway in which disulfide is synthesized by organic boric acid and Na₂S₂O₃ using the catalyst (NH₄)₃[CrMo₆O₁₈(OH)₆], demonstrating a high activity and excellent selectivity. Various boric acid derivatives have been successfully transformed into the corresponding disulfides. Mechanistic insights have been furnished based on the observation of intermediate and control experiments.