Catalytic activity and selectivity of reusable α-MoO3 nanobelts toward oxidation of olefins and sulfides using economical peroxides

Abstract

The novel catalytic activity of α-MoO₃ nanobelts prepared by a new and safe sol–gel method for the epoxidation of olefins and oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides using H₂O₂ in ethanol as a safe solvent has been exploited. The reactions also proceeded efficiently in the presence of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP). Good/high yields and excellent selectivity resulted. The ammonia TPD profile demonstrated strong acidic sites in synthesized α-MoO₃ nanobelts, which generated different catalytic activity than the bulk material. The separation and reuse of this heterogeneous nanocatalyst was simple, effective and economical in the presented oxidation methods.