Catalytic aerobic oxidation of alcohols by Fe(NO3)3-FeBr3

Selective aerobic oxidation of secondary and benzylic alcohols was efficiently accomplished by the binary catalyst system Fe(NO3)(3)-FeBr3 under air at room temperature. The oxidation developed in mild conditions and showed good yields. A secondary alcohol even in the presence of a primary one was selectively oxidized. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.