| Abstract: | Functionalized polymers are found to be highly efficient in immobilizing transition metal ions. Crosslinked polystyrene supported Schiff's base complexes of metal ions such as Fe(III), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) are very effective as heterogeneous catalysts. The catalytic activity of these metal complexes has been studied in the decomposition of H2O2 and in the epoxidation of cyclohexene and styrene. The reactions show a first order dependence on the concentration of both the substrates and the catalyst. The influence of the degree of crosslinking of the polymer support on the rate of reactions has been studied. The metal complexes show low catalytic activity at low crosslink density (2% and 5%) but 10% crosslinked resins show higher activity. A possible mechanism for the reactions is suggested. © 1999 Society of Chemical Industry |
