A versatile supported cobalt(ii) complex for heterogeneously catalysed processes: conventional vs. microwave irradiation protocols

Abstract

A highly active and reusable Co(II) complex supported on SBA-15 has been employed as a versatile heterogeneous catalyst in a range of processes including the synthesis of 1,1-diacetates, the acetalisation of aldehydes and the selective oxidation of various alcohols. The results obtained by using conventional protocols have been compared to the use of microwave irradiation as an alternative reaction media. The highly active catalyst was successfully utilised in such heterogeneously catalysed processes, in which the improved rates of reactions (from hours to minutes), yields and even selectivities in some cases, demonstrated the usefulness of microwave-assisted protocols as alternative methodologies in organic synthesis. The reported catalyst is believed to be a potentially versatile option that can be extended to further catalytic systems.