Cooperative catalysis by polymetallic copper–zinc complexes in the efficient oxidation of alcohols under solvent free condition

• The new copper-zinc trinuclear complex oxidises the alcohols to the corresponding carbonyl compounds.
• The polymetallic complexes exhibited remarkable cooperative effect in the oxidation process.
• Over oxidation to the corresponding acids doesn’t occur.
• Reactions are carried out under solvent free condition.
• The present route is simple and environmentally benign.

The oxidation of alcohols to corresponding aldehydes and ketones has been achieved using polymetallic complexes as catalyst with hydrogen peroxide as the terminal oxidant under a solvent free condition. These polymetallic complexes linked to a single ligand system exhibited remarkable cooperative effect in the oxidation process. This ecologically friendly procedure releases water as the only by-product.

Synergy between copper and zinc centers in the complexes has provided a greener route in efficient oxidation of alcohols to the corresponding carbonyl compounds using H2O2 as an oxidant.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide