In this study, humic acid is introduced as a sustainable and green catalyst for C–S bond formation.
Thioethers were synthesized via the reaction of thiols with aldehydes and carboxylic acids in
dimethylformamide (DMF), where humic acid effectively facilitated the generation of stable thiyl and alkyl
radicals. This method offers a mild, efficient, and environmentally friendly approach with broad
functional group tolerance, highlighting the potential of humic acid as a practical catalyst in green
organic synthesis.