Selective and efficient transformation of thioethers to their sulfoxides and catalytic conversions of thiols to the disulfides with hydrated iron(III) and copper(II) nitrates in aprotic organic solvents or under solvent free conditions.

Fe(NO3)(3).9H(2)O and Cu(NO3)2.3H(2)O are efficient reagents for the conversion of thioethers to their sulfoxides in refluxing EtOAc in high yields. Fe(NO3)(3).9H(2)O is also able to proceed the transformations under solvent free conditions at room temperature with excellent yields. Cu(NO3)(2).3H(2)O is highly selective for the oxidation of alyl thioethers to the corresponding sulfoxides. Cu(NO3)(2).3H(2)O also oxidizes catalytically thiols to their corresponding disulfides in excellent yields.