A new and efficient method for the synthesis of thiourea derivatives by a sequential one-pot, three component reaction between aromatic isocyanides, amines, and 1,2-di-tert-butyldisulfane (DTBS) was developed and 27 different examples were synthesized in good to excellent yields. DTBS was identified as an effective sulfur surrogate without the use of both catalysts and solvents. This protocol does not employ any transition metal catalyst or special experimental setup. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Ltd.