Catalytic oxidation and reduction reactions are integral for the sustainable production of fuels, chemicals and clean water. The presence of protic solvents and the solution phase can significantly influence the catalytic activity and selectivity in metal catalyzed reduction and oxidation systems by stabilizing polar transition states. Such solvents can also directly participate in catalysis by facilitating proton and electron transfer reactions. Such reactions are pervasive throughout enzyme, homogeneous and electrochemical catalytic systems. Much can be learned by comparing these different catalytic systems. Herein we explore the kinetics and mechanisms that control selective catalytic oxidation of alcohols to form acids and esters as well as the selective reduction of oxygen to form hydrogen peroxide over different transition metal surfaces and particles. We draw specific analogies and highlight differences between heterogeneous catalyzed oxidation and reduction transformations and similar reactions carried by enzymes and electrocatalysts.

Insights into catalytic oxidation and reduction reactions at metal/solution interfaces

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.