Effect of the matrix in niobium-based aerogel catalysts for the selective oxidation of olefins with hydrogen peroxide

The oxidation of unsubstituted (cyclooctene) and substituted (geraniol, nerol, and trans-2-pentene-1-ol) olefins is studied. The catalysts are moderately active but produce epoxides in good yields. The latter are influenced by the matrix properties (surface acidity and surface area). The preparation method makes it possible to prepare catalysts that are resistant to leaching and can be recycled several times without appreciable loss of activity.