Process for preparing polysulfides using clarified white liquor

The present invention provides a process for preparing polysulfide. More particularly, the process of the present invention allows one to prepare the amount of polysulfide needed using clarified white liquor, and to be used when and where it is needed during the cooking process. The process comprises reacting alkaline digesting liquor after clarification with a catalytic amount of a transition metal oxide catalyst, most preferably manganese dioxide. The reaction is conducted at a temperature of 98° C. or less, and is conducted for a short period of time, e.g., less than five minutes, with no oxygen gas or air being introduced with the catalyst and the main flow of clarified liquor.