Tripropylammonium fluorochromate(VI) (TPAFC) is an efficient and novel reagent, which can be prepared easily and oxidizes thiols to the corresponding disulfides, quickly. The reactions are performed cleanly and are controlled to stop at the disulfide stage, without over-oxidation or side products. Coupling of thiols to their corresponding disulfides, was studied in solution at room temperature and under conditions using a minimal amount of solvent under microwave irradiation. The easy procedure, simple work-up, short reaction times, and excellent yields are other advantages of this reagent.

KEY WORDS: Thiol, Oxidation, Coupling, Disulfide, Tripropylammonium fluorochromate, Microwave irradiation

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2012, 26(1), 139-144.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v26i1.16