Hybrid peroxotungstophosphate organized catalysts highly active and selective in alkene epoxidation

Heterogenization of homogeneous catalysts is still a challenge but can improve drastically the processability of these compounds. Hybridization of polyoxometalates offers an efficient heterogenization route of homogeneous epoxidation catalysts. The Keggin [PW12O40](3-) and the Ventruello {PO4[WO(O-2)(2)](4)}(3-) species were inserted by electrostatic interactions in a poly(ampholytic) polymeric matrix in order to prevent the leaching of these species. The presence of the polymeric matrix allows to tune the catalyst performance in cyclooctene epoxidation and to improve the selectivity to epoxide. Indeed, the hydrophobicity of the matrix induces a quick desorption of hydrophilic epoxide species. Their over-oxidation and the catalyst species deactivation by over-adsorption of epoxide are then avoided. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.