Schiff base complexes of Mo(VI) immobilized on functionalized graphene oxide nano-sheets for the catalytic epoxidation of alkenes

Mo(VI) tetradentate Schiff base complexes were covalently immobilized onto chemically functionalized graphene oxide (GO) using 3-(tri-methoxysilyl) propylamine as a coupler. The resulting heterogeneous catalysts have been characterized by FTIR, DRS, XRD, SEM, TGA, and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). These catalysts were applied in epoxidation of cyclooctene and other olefins. The catalytic procedures with all catalysts were optimized for different parameters such as oxidant, solvent and temperature. Recycling results indicated that the catalysts were highly stable and maintained activity and selectivity even after being used for five cycles.