Bis(phenolato)molybdenum complexes as catalyst precursors for the deoxydehydration of biomass-derived polyols

Bio-based polyols can be converted to olefins and furan derivatives in one step by combined reduction and dehydration (deoxydehydration, DODH). A series of octahedral complexes of hexavalent molybdenum containing an (OSSO)-type bis(phenolate) ligand were prepared and structurally characterized. These complexes were screened as catalyst precursors for the deoxydehydration of anhydroerythritol using 3-octanol as reducing agent. Microwave heating allows a lower reaction temperature.

Graphical abstractOctahedral complexes of hexavalent molybdenum containing an (OSSO)-type bis(phenolate) ligand were prepared and structurally characterized. These complexes were screened as catalysts for the deoxydehydration of anhydroerythritol using 3-octanol as reducing agent.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide