Functionalized MCM-41 based recyclable catalyst for the epoxidation of alkenes using tert-BuOOH

Abstract

Herein, we have reported synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of an efficient and reusable silica-based catalyst MCM@CP@PAL@Cu. This catalyst was prepared by the anchoring of Cu(II)-Schiff base complex on mesoporous MCM-41 grafted with -chloro group on the surface. The obtained catalyst was characterized with various analytical methods such as FT-IR, low angle P-XRD, TGA, N2 adsorption-desorption, SEM, TEM and MPAES. The catalyst composition and chemical state of Cu metal identified using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The catalyst MCM@CP@PAL@Cu employed for the conversion of various alkenes to their epoxides using tert-butyl-hydroperoxide (TBHP) oxidant and acetonitrile as a solvent. 99% yield of the epoxide obtained with model reaction and catalyst can be reused minimum six times with same efficiencies.