Molybdenum oxo–peroxo complex: A very fast catalyst for oxidation and reduction of sulfur-based compounds

We have evaluated the catalytic activity of a molybdenum(VI) oxo–peroxo complex through the oxidation and reduction of sulfur-based compounds. Arylalkyl, diaryl and dialkyl sulfides are selectively oxidized to corresponding sulfoxides, with tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP), in the presence of MoO(O2)(phox)2 complex as catalyst. This molybdenum complex was also found to be an efficient catalyst for the deoxygenation of sulfoxides to sulfides with PPh3 in excellent yields and chemoselectivity.

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► MoO(O2)(phox)2 catalyze oxidation of sulfides using TBHP.
► MoO(O2)(phox)2 was efficient catalyst for the reduction of sulfoxides with PPh3.
► The mechanism for catalytic reduction and oxidation was proposed.
► The catalytic activity of MoO2(phox)2 and MoO(O2)(phox)2 complexes was compared.