Abstract
Mild catalytic oxidation of thioethers and thiophenes is an important reaction for the synthesis of molecules with pharmaceutical interest, as well as for the development of efficient processes able to remove sulfur-containing pollutants from fuels and wastewater. With respect to the green chemistry principles, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is the ideal oxidant and the Me-containing porous materials (Me = Ti, V, Mo, W, Zr) are among the best heterogeneous catalysts for these applications. The main classes of catalysts, including Me-microporous and mesoporous silicates, Me-layered double hydroxides, Me-metal–organic frameworks, are described in this review. The catalytic active species generated in the presence of H2O2, as well as the probable oxidation mechanisms, are also addressed. The reactivity of molecules in the sulfoxidation process and the role played by the solvents are explored.
Highlights
Liquid phase oxidation of organic molecules is widely used in industrial processes
Hydrogen peroxide is an ideal oxidant owing to its high effective-oxygen content
With respect to the green chemistry principles, the heterogeneous catalysis better meets the requirements of sustainable chemistry [2,3,4]
Summary
Liquid phase oxidation of organic molecules is widely used in industrial processes. These processes use organic peracids and inorganic compounds in stoichiometric amounts as oxidizing agents. Numerous by-products and large volumes of liquid wastes are generated. To overcome these drawbacks, catalytic methods based on environmentally friendly oxidizing agents, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ), peroxides or hydroperoxydes, have been considered. Significant research efforts have been paid to develop cleaner processes based on the use of homogeneous or heterogeneous oxidation catalysts.
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