Base-free selective oxidation of glycerol with 3% H2O2 catalyzed by sulphonato-salen-chromium(III) intercalated LDH

A MgAl layered-double hydroxides (LDH) intercalated by sulphonato-salen-chromium(III) complex was used to the selective oxidation of glycerol (GLY) using 3% H2O2 as oxidant. The results revealed that the LDH hosted chromium complex was effective heterogeneous catalyst. And the main product was the C3 oxygenated products of secondary alcohol‐dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Under the optimal reaction conditions, the highest conversion of GLY reached 73.1% with 43.5% of the selectivity to DHA. Moreover, the catalytic performance remained after being recycled 6 times. In addition, the reaction probably involved an enzyme mimetic mechanism.

Graphical abstractA MgAl layered-double hydroxides (LDH) intercalated by sulphonato-salen-chromium(III) complex was effective heterogeneous catalyst for the selective oxidation of glycerol to dihydroxyacetone by 3% H2O2. The optimal glycerol conversion reached 73.1% with 43.5% of the selectivity to dihydroxyacetone.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Reaction was performed in base-free solution over low-cost transition metal catalysts. ► Heterogeneous catalysis and recyclability of the catalyst. ► Conversion of GLY reached 73.1% with 43.5% of the selectivity to DHA.