How is 2,5-Bis(octyldisulfanyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazole (CAS: 13539-13-4) typically synthesized?

2,5-Bis(octyldisulfanyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazole is typically synthesized via the reaction of thiosemicarbazide with octanethiol in the presence of a catalyst like tetrabutylammonium bromide. The reaction involves the formation of a thiosemicarbazonium salt followed by an intramolecular cyclization, leading to the formation of the 1,3,4-thiadiazole ring. This process yields the compound in good to excellent purity and selectivity.