Synthesis and characterization of a Mn‐Schiff base complex anchored on modified MCM‐41 as a novel and recyclable catalyst for oxidation of olefins

Abstract

Mn‐Schiff base complex has been covalently attached to the surface of Mobil Composite Material No. 41 (MCM‐41) using a 1,4‐diisocyanatobutane (DIC‐4) as a binder. The prepared heterogeneous catalyst was characterized by X‐ray diffraction pattern (XRD), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, X‐ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The BET results indicated that the surface area and pore size of MCM‐41 were decreased after modification. The obtained catalyst was used as a highly efficient, heterogeneous and recyclable catalyst for the oxidation of a wide range of alkenes with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a green oxidant. The effect of various parameters such as catalyst and imidazole (co‐catalyst) concentration, tempreture, and reaction time on the conversion effecincy and selectivity of the reaction have been studied. The catalyst was used in five consecutive experiment without any loss of activity, confirming the success of the anchoring process and the catalyst stability.