Aerobic photocatalysed oxidation of alkanes in the presence of decatungstates: products and effects of solvent and counter-ion of the catalyst

Abstract

The aerobic photocatalysed oxidation of alkanes in the presence of decatungstates Q₄W₁₀O₃₂(Q = Na, Me₄N, Pr₄N, Bu₄N, Hex₄N) leads to hydroperoxides as primary products. Nitrile solvents and organic counter-ions of the catalyst compete in this photooxidation with alkane substrate. The influence of this competition on quantum yield, rate and selectivity for the oxidation of adamantane is quantitatively evaluated. A catalytic cycle, describing the formation of primary and secondary oxidation products, is proposed.