Fabrication of CuTNPc/MWCNTs composites by in-situ solvothermal method for efficient selective oxidation of styrene

Abstract

The tetranitro-copper phthalocyanine/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CuTNPc/MWCNTs) composites have been successfully fabricated by a straightforward in-situ solvothermal approach. The as-prepared CuTNPc/MWCNTs composites can be used as effective catalysts for the styrene catalytic oxidation to benzaldehyde. Effects of solvent type, oxidant type, catalyst dose, and reaction temperature on catalytic performance are investigated. It can be found that the CuTNPc/MWCNTs composites showed significant catalytic oxidation of styrene activity. Under the optimal conditions of 0.3 g styrene, 20 mg CuTNPc/MWCNTs, 3 mL TBHP as oxidant, and 5 mL THF at 90 ℃ for 6 h, the styrene conversion, and benzaldehyde selectivity could reach 99.74% and 79.53%, respectively. In addition, the possible reaction mechanism of styrene selective oxidation to benzaldehyde by CuTNPc/MWCNTs is also proposed.