The first step of the reaction is a simple
S
N
2
reaction.
For best results the alkyl halide must be able to undergo substitution easily.
When the sulphonium ion has been formed the reactivity is much the same as in the
Swern
reaction.
Other reactions involving sulphur reactivity:
Mannich
,
Paal-Knorr Thiophene Synthesis
,
Pummerer
,
Ramburg-Backlund
and
Swern
reactions.
Reference:
Wan, W.; Li T.; Attardo G.;
Journal of Organic Chemistry
, 1997, Volume 67, Issue 19, 6598-6602