AUTOXIDATION REACTIONS CATALYZED BY COBALT ACETATE BROMIDE

Abstract

Cobalt acetate bromide in acetic acid solution is an extraordinarily active catalyst for the autoxidation of hydrocarbons. Carboxylic acids and ketones are readily prepared in high yields at moderate temperatures and at atmospheric pressure. In addition, benzylic and allylic groups can be converted to esters of the corresponding alcohols, and the oxidation of tetralin can be controlled to give either α-tetralone or 1,2-dihydronaphthalene as the major product. A mechanism for these reactions is postulated.