Asymmetric epoxidation of unfunctionalized olefins catalyzed by Mn(III) salen complex immobilized on MCM-48

Chiral Mn(III) salen complexes were supported on mesoporous molecular sieve MCM-48 and employed as catalyst in the asymmetric epoxidation of some unfunctionalized olefins. The as-synthesized catalysts showed excellent enantioselectivity than homogeneous catalysts for α-methylstyrene and the highest ee value (up to >99%) was obtained. Furthermore, these catalysts were also effective for bulkier olefins such as indene and 1-phenylcyclohexene. Compared to homogeneous counterparts, the heterogeneous catalysts are more stable and can be recycled three times without loss of enantioselectivity.