Historical landmarks of the application of molecular transition metal catalysts for olefin epoxidation

•Historical perspective on molecular transition metal catalysts for olefin epoxidation.•Overview of homogeneous Mo, V catalysts.•Methyltrioxorhenium and catalytically active congeners.•Development of molecular catalysts for asymmetric epoxidation of olefins.•Emerging Fe, Rh and non-metal epoxidation catalysts.

Various polymers, fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food additives and flavor & fragrance compounds are based on epoxide intermediates. This historical perspective covers the landmarks of molecular transition metal catalysts for olefin epoxidation. The historic developments of Mo and V catalysts, methyltrioxorhenium and both Sharpless and Jacobsen asymmetric epoxidation are covered and an outlook on new upcoming systems is given.

Graphical abstractThis historical perspective highlights the milestones of the epoxidation of olefins with molecular transition metal catalysts in homogeneous phase. The most relevant catalytic systems are presented, and a critical outlook is given.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide