Catalytic performance of Keplerate polyoxomolybdates in green epoxidation of alkenes with hydrogen peroxide

Abstract

In this work, the catalytic perspective of three Keplerate polyoxometalates, Mo₇₂M₃₀ (M = V, Cr, Fe) in the epoxidation of various alkenes is considered. The catalytic reactions were performed in water under mild conditions and high to excellent conversions and selectivities were obtained using H₂O₂ as oxidant and Mo₇₂Cr₃₀ as the best catalyst. Keplerate POM catalysts have shown a very good recyclability, up to five times, without any appreciable decreases in catalytic activity and selectivity.