The oxidation of 2,6-xylenol catalysed by polymer supported copper complexes

The synthesis and characterisation of copolymers containing tertiary nitrogen to which Cu(I) or Cu(II) species are anchored is described. The anchored species function as catalysts for the oxidation of 2,6-xylenol by O2 under basic conditions. The kinetics of these oxidations have been followed by monitoring oxygen uptake as a function of pH, temperature, reactant concentrations, oxygen partial pressure and catalyst loading. A suitable mechanism is proposed to account for the kinetics as well as the formation of the product, diphenoquinone. Recycling efficiencies of the catalysts are found to be good. © 1997 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.