Cyclohexane oxidation: Small organic molecules as catalysts

The catalytic activity of several small organic molecules including ketones, aldehydes, esters, alcohols and amines toward cyclohexane oxidation was investigated. The catalytic activity was found to be closely related to polarity, α-H activity, the strength of hydrogen bond formed with cyclohexane and the radical scavenging capability of these molecules. Based on the obtained results, the catalytic role of the organic solvent must be considered for cyclohexane oxidation. Tripropylamine has very high activity in cyclohexane oxidation and it might be further developed as a promising small-molecule organocatalyst for future application.

Graphical AbstractN- or O-containing small organic molecules were used as catalysts for cyclohexane oxidation. The polarity, α-H activity, strength of the hydrogen bond formed with cyclohexane and the radical scavenging capability of these molecules determine their catalytic activity.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide