Synthesis and ligand metathetical reactions of supported transesterification catalyst models

Abstract

Surface-bound complexes of zirconium, titanium, or tin were prepared on hydroxylated aluminum metal in either ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) or under near ambient conditions. Ligand metathetical reactions were performed on these complexes using phenols or carboxylic acids. Reactions were monitored by FT-IR, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and temperature programmed desorption in UHV, and by FT-IR and quartz crystal microbalance measurements under near ambient conditions. Ester adducts of surface tin and zirconium alkoxides were observed in UHV, and a tin transesterification catalyst was prepared based on these observations.