Co and Mn polysiloxanes as unique initiator–catalyst-systems for the selective liquid phase oxidation of o-xylene

Co and Mn polysiloxanes are unique catalyst/initiator systems for the liquid phase oxidation of o-xylene showing higher activity than Co naphthenates, which is related to the weak interaction of the polar products with the hydrophobic surface as well as the absence of hydroxyl groups and surrounding oxygenates limiting radical quenching.