Cobalt-iron magnetic composites as heterogeneous catalysts for the aerobic oxidation of thiols under alkali free conditions

▶ A simple method for the liquid-phase aerobic oxidation of thiols has been developed. ▶ Co-Fe inexpensive magnetic materials are used as efficient heterogeneous catalysts. ▶ Disulfides can be obtained in high yields at low catalyst loading (0.008 mol%). ▶ The catalyst does not undergo leaching and can be recovered magnetically and reused. ▶ The reaction occurs under mild alkali free conditions using air as an oxygen source.