Solvent-free selective oxidation of toluene over metal-doped MCM-22

Herein, copper- and iron-modified MCM-22 were prepared using a wet impregnation method and characterized using XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, TG, UV-vis-DR and N-2 adsorption desorption techniques. The solvent- free catalytic oxidation of toluene was investigated using the copper- and iron-doped MCM-22 catalyst at 90 degrees C in the presence of hydrogen peroxide as the terminal oxidant. The selectivity to benzaldehyde as a product was studied by varying several reaction parameters. The recycling studies indicate that the catalyst can be reused for up to 3 cycles without structural degradation. Moreover, optimum conditions for the reaction have been explored, and a possible reaction mechanism has been discussed.