Synthesis of beta-hydroxysulfides from alkenes under supramolecular catalysis in the presence of beta-cyclodextrin in water

A procedure for the direct one-pot synthesis of beta-hydroxysulfides in good yields under neutral conditions from alkenes and thiophenols in the presence of aerial oxygen using beta-cyclodextrin in water is developed. The protocol, which dispenses the use of acid or base catalysts, allows the recovery of Beta-cyclodextrin catalyst and its reuse for a number of runs without any loss of activity.