Oxidation of bicyclic arenes with hydrogen peroxide catalysed by Mn(III) porphyrins

Some Mn(III) porphyrin complexes were evaluated as catalysts in the oxidation of indane and tetralin with H2O2 in the presence of ammonium acetate. Catalysis by Mn(III)TDCPPCl gave rise mainly to monooxygenation products, but in over-oxidation conditions, hydroxy-keto compounds were selectively obtained. Catalysis by Mn(III)TF5PPCl leaded to dehydrogenated products and several studies to understand the reaction pathways were undertaken.