Efficient oxidation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with H2O2 catalyzed by 5,10,15-triarylcorrolatoiron (IV) chloride in ionic liquids

A simple and efficient oxidative system has been developed for the oxidation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with H2O2 catalyzed by 5,10,15-triarylcorrolatoiron (IV) chloride in mixed reaction media using imidazolium ionic liquids and organic solvents. The coordination effects of different organic solvents as well as anions of ionic liquids on the oxidation reactions have been examined.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Oxidation of aromatic hydrocarbons was performed in IL co-solvent mixture. ► Use of coordinating solvent such as methanol gives highest yield. ► Yield of quinones were higher in non-coordinating ionic liquid like [bmim][PF6]. ► Axial ligand of iron corroles were exchanged by Strong coordinating anions in ILs. ► Electron withdrawing substituent in iron corroles showed better catalytic activity.