Rapid and efficient synthesis of symmetrical alkyl disulfides under phase transfer conditions

A one-pot, rapid and general method for the synthesis of symmetrical disulfides based on reaction of sulfur with sodium sulfide in the presence of didecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB) as a phase transfer catalyst is reported. Reaction with a variety of alkyl halides, at room temperature, afforded the disulfides in good to excellent isolated yields in a short time.