8/629823International Classification: C07C31900U.S. Classification: 568 73Abstract: A process is disclosed for the preparation of primary mercaptans by reacting hydrogen sulfide with an alpha-olefin in the presence of a reaction initiating amount of a borane represented by the formula R. sub. 2 BH or R. sub. 3 B where R is a linear or cyclic aliphatic or aryl group.