Regioselective oxidation of hydrocarbons using a chemical catalyst that is cost-effective, robust and avoid self-oxidation is a challenge facing many synthetic chemists. Nature on the other hand, unequivocally performs such reactions under ambient conditions as many important biological transformations require activation of C-H bond. Copper containing metalloenzymes play a significant role in dioxygen activation and hydrocarbon functionalization in nature. Thorough spectroscopic characterization of synthetic analogues of copper oxidases has been essential for understanding the structure and function of the native enzyme and how to apply that knowledge towards rational catalyst design. We have synthesized copper containing coordination complexes supported by tetradentate ligands. We are investigating the reactions of these Cu (II) complexes with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a strong oxidant toward different organic substrates. Furthermore, we will explore reactivity of these complexes with cumyl hydroperoxide to elucidate reaction mechanism. These experimental data will corroborate our theoretical findings.

Scope and mechanism of C-H bond activation by bio-inspired copper complexes and peroxides

2019 Fall National Meeting

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