Synthesis, characterization, and catalytic oxygenation activity of dinuclear iron(III) complex supported by binaphthol-containing chiral ligand

A (μ-oxo)(μ-carboxylato) doubly bridged diiron(III) complex supported by a new dinucleating ligand containing a chiral binaphthol spacer has been synthesized and characterized. Catalytic oxidation of alkanes with m-CPBA proceeded very efficiently to give the corresponding alcohols as the major products together with ketones as minor products. Mechanistic studies have suggested that the reaction involves a highly reactive metal-based oxidant.