Green catalysis for the selective oxidation of sulfides with high turnover numbers in water at room temperature

A hybrid catalyst based on monoprotonated divanadium-substituted phosphotungstate ([gamma-HPV2W10O40](4-)) was synthesized and used for the selective oxidation of sulfides. The catalytic system was carried out in water with hydrogen peroxide at room temperature. Unprecedented turnover numbers (TONs) for all substrates were obtained, which are much higher than previous reports.