Fast and efficient green synthesis of thiosulfonate S-esters by microwave-supported permanganate oxidation of symmetrical disulfides

Potassium permanganate absorbed on copper(II) sulfate pentahydrate has been found to be an efficient, inexpensive, and green oxidation agent for the synthesis of “symmetrical” thiosulfonate S-esters by oxidation of the corresponding symmetrical disulfides. The oxidation reactions were carried out under solvent-free reaction conditions within 15 min under the influence of microwave irradiation, as well as (for comparison) supported by conventional heating, to afford yields of the thiosulfonate S-esters in the range of 60–83%. The oxidation reaction appears to proceed (at least partly) via an intermediate symmetrical vic-disulfoxide.