Supramolecular concepts for the biphasic epoxidation of olefins using aqueous hydrogen peroxide

Abstract

We present an overview of supramolecular strategies for epoxidations of hydrophobic olefins in water using phase-transfer-controlling surfactants, with special regard to the rationale of phase transfer and the efficiency of catalyst recycling. Principally, it is possible to transfer the catalyst to both the aqueous and the organic phase, depending on the type of surfactant and on the requirements for the reaction. We compare these two basic concepts with respect to the type of phase transfer and the supramolecular interactions between catalyst and surfactant, the catalyst activity, and the possibility for efficient and ‘green’ catalyst recycling.