Distinct Catalytic Effect of Micellar Solution of Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) for One-Pot Conversion of Alkyl Halides to Disulfides via an Odourless Process Using Thiourea and MnO2

A novel one-pot odourless synthesis of symmetrical disulfides from their corresponding halides in aqueous media using thiourea and MnO2 in the presence of NaHCO3 or Na2CO3 catalyzed by micellar solution of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) is described. By this method, primary, allylic and benzylic halides were converted into their corresponding disulfides in high yields.