A catalytic process for the selective oxidation of alcohols by copper (II) complexes

Novel copper (II)–N–(2-pyridyl)–N'–(5-R-salicylidene) hydrazine triphenylphosphine complexes have been synthesized and characterized. The complexes were effective in the catalytic oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols in presence of periodic acid (H5IO6) as oxidant. The oxidation reactions were carried out in acetonitrile. Electrochemical electron transfer study reveals CuII–CuI reduction in methanolic solutions. A mechanistic study of the above reactions has been proposed.

Graphical AbstractA catalytic system consisting of copper–Schiff base-triphenylphosphine complex and periodic acid was effective in the selective oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols. The oxidation reactions were carried out in acetonitrile.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Copper (II)–Schiff base complexes with triphenylphosphine were effective in the oxidation of primary and secondary alcohols in acetonitrile medium in presence of periodic acid.
► Short reaction time of 30 min
► Reaction requires no external additives
► A variety of alcohols were selectively oxidized to their corresponding carbonyl compounds.