Synthesis and nano-Pd catalyzed chemoselective oxidation of symmetrical and unsymmetrical sulfides

A highly chemoselective, efficient and nano-Pd catalyzed protocol for the rapid construction of sulfoxides and sulfones via the oxidation of symmetrical and unsymmetrical sulfides using H2O2 as an oxidant has been developed, respectively. The ready availability of starting materials, easy recovery and reutilization of the catalyst, wide substrate scope, and high yields make this protocol an attractive alternative. The process also involves the metal-free and microwave-promoted synthesis of symmetrical diarylsulfides, and FeCl3-mediated preparation of symmetrical diaryldisulfides through the reaction of arenediazonium tetrafluoroborates with Na2S·9H2O as a sulfur source. In addition, unsymmetrical sulfides were generated via the K2CO3-mediated reaction of arenediazonium tetrafluoroborates with symmetrical disulfides.