Selective Decomposition of Cyclohexyl Hydroperoxide using Homogeneous and Heterogeneous CrVI Catalysts: Optimizing the Reaction by Evaluating the Reaction Mechanism

Abstract

AbstractIn this study, known homogeneous and heterogeneous chromium(VI) catalyst systems were investigated with respect to the favored formation of cyclohexanone during the decomposition of cyclohexyl hydroperoxide (CHHP). The focus was on mechanistic studies using different spectroscopic methods as well as DFT calculations to further optimize the reaction conditions. As in previous decomposition studies, a mechanism via the formation of a metal alkylperoxido intermediate is probable. In situ spectroscopic studies revealed that in case of both the soluble and insoluble catalyst, the selective decomposition happens via a non‐radical, non‐redox mechanism at the CrVI stage through the formation of a cyclohexylperoxychromium(VI) complex. The proposed mechanism is supported by thorough DFT calculations.