Vanadyl arsenates as catalysts for selective oxidation of organic sulfides and alkenes

Two vanadyl arsenates templated with ethylendiamonium (EnVAs) and piperazonium (PipVAs) were evaluated as catalysts for the oxidation of thioethers and alkenes, using H2O2 and t-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as oxidants. The intrinsic activity of EnVAs was higher than that of PipVAs for the oxidation of sulfides. Similar results were obtained when using either H2O2 or TBHP as oxidants. However, the sterical effects were enhanced when TBHP was used and higher selectivities towards sulfoxides were achieved with this oxidant. The catalytic activity of the V-based materials in the epoxidation of simple alkenes and allylic alcohols was assessed. Upon reuse, both materials show no significant decrease in their catalytic properties.

Graphical abstractTwo isostructural vanadyl arsenates, EnVAs and PipVAs catalyze the oxidation of thioethers and alkenes. The different catalytic behavior can be explained taking into account their crystal structure.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (288 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights▶ EnVAs and PipVAs were tested as heterogeneous catalysts with good results. ▶ EnVAs is more efficient than PipVAs. ▶ This difference is consequence of the structural differences between both catalysts. ▶ Both catalysts can be reused without losing their activity.