Hydrothermal synthesis of a novel μ-dihydroxo-bis(2,6-pyridinedicarboxylatoaquachromium(III)) complex and investigation of its catalytic activity

► A new chromium(III) complex has been synthesized by the hydrothermal reaction in alkali medium. ► Heterogenous catalyst exhibits catalytic activity oxidation of thymol to thymoquinone. ► The compound shows high selectivity for thymoquinone ca. 100%.