Allylic oxdation of alkenes with molecular oxygen catalyzed by porous coordination polymers Fe-MIL-101 and Cr-MIL-101

The catalytic performances of Cr-MIL-101 and Fe-MIL-101 porous coordination polymers have been investigated in the allylic oxidation of alkenes, including natural terpenes, with molecular oxygen (1 atm) under mild solvent-free conditions. Both catalysts remain stable under optimal conditions (40°C for Fe-MIL-101 and 60°C for Cr-MIL-101) and can be recycled, at least, four times without loss of the catalytic properties. Fe-MIL-101 favours the formation of unsaturated alcohols, while Cr-MIL-101 mediates the formation of unsaturated ketones. The oxidation process involves the formation of alkene hydroperoxide via conventional radical chain process and its further transformations over the MIL-101 catalysts. The mechanism of the hydroperoxide transformation strongly depends on the metal nature.