A simple and convenient one-pot procedure is described for the synthesis of thioethers via boron esters. This procedure involves in-situ generation of alkyl sulfates by reaction of trialkyl borates with concentrated sulfuric acid and subsequent reaction with thiols in the presence of pyridine. The reactions with boron esters of primary or secondary alcohols proceed cleanly at 100° C and afford aliphatic thioethers in reasonable yields (59–93%) ...
