Classification Scheme for Homogeneous Metal Catalyzed Oxidations by O2

摘要

The metal complex catalyzed oxidation of organic substrates is an important areaof chemistry with relevance to biological and industrial processes. The immense literature in the area can be overwhelming with considerable speculation concerning the role metals play in the process. In this article, the reactions metal complexes undergo in the activation of 02 are divided into five classes. The classification serves as a guide for the selection of metal complexes to catalyze the oxidation of organic substrates. It also provides a summary of established reaction types for an investigator to consider before proposing a new mechanism.