Chapter 2. C–H Activation of Alkanes in Selective Oxidation Reactions on Solid Oxide Catalysts

This chapter is focused on the initial activation step of C–H bonds in oxidation reactions. Model experiments, kinetic analysis of complex reactions and theoretical studies will be combined to provide an overview on the current state of insight into the processes as well as their potentials and limitations. The chapter covers processes on oxide clusters, indirect oxidation via electrophilic substitution reactions (chlorination and bromination) and the influence of anions and nonreducible cations on the mechanism of C–H activation.