Copper(II) complexes with BIAN-type ligands: Synthesis and catalytic activity in oxidation of hydrocarbons and alcohols

A series of copper(II) complexes of general formula [Cu(R-bian)X2] (X = Cl, Br) (1-5) containing rare and/or hard-to-get BIAN ligands with Ph, 4-OH-Ph, 3-NH2-Py and 3-Py functional groups, have been obtained by a template method. The composition of complexes 1-5 was confirmed by elemental analysis and IR spectroscopy. Complexes 1-5 exhibited high catalytic activity in the oxidation of alkanes and alcohols with peroxides. It has been established that alkyl hydroperoxides are intermediate products in reactions with alkanes. Maximum yield of the oxidation products of cyclohexane attained 31-32 % (complexes 2, 3 and 5). Based on the studies of kinetics and regio- and bond selectivity, it was concluded that hydroxyl radicals play a decisive role in the reaction.