Selective oxidation of toluene over the new catalyst cobalt tetra (4-hydroxyl) phenylporphyrin supported on zinc oxide

Cobalt tetra(4-hydroxyl)phenylporphyrin/ZnO was prepared and used for the catalytic oxidation of toluene with O2. Its activity has been increased by 70% over that of the cobalt tetra(4-hydroxyl)phenylporphyrin and the effective reuse of the supported catalyst for toluene oxidation is seven times per 1 mg (1.35 × 10−6 mol) cobalt tetra(4-hydroxyl)phenylporphyrin, demonstrating the promotion by zinc oxide.

Graphical AbstractThe catalytic activity and the efficient reusability for toluene oxidation of cobalt tetra (4-hydroxyl) phenylporphyrin, which should be a relatively easily oxidized and less active catalyst compared with cobalt tetraphenylporphyrin, was significantly promoted by use of a ZnO support.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch Highlights► Cobalt tetra (4-hydroxyl) phenylporphyrin was immobilized in O2-adsorbed ZnO. ► The catalytic activity of Co THPP/ZnO is increased by about 70%. ► The coordination of ZnO has an important effect on the catalytic activity. ► Co THPP/ZnO can be easily recovered and efficiently reused.