Heteropolyperoxo- and isopolyperoxo-tungstates and-molybdates as catalysts for the oxidation of tertiary amines, alkenes and alcohols

The catalytic oxidation of tertiary amines to the corresponding N-oxides by [XO4{MO(O2)2}4]3–(X = P or As, M = Mo or W) and by [M2O3(O2)4]2– with H2O2 as co-oxidant has been studied. Epoxidation of alkenes and oxidation of alcohols by [M2O3(O2)4]2– with H2O2 as co-oxidant has also been examined and compared with that effected by [XO4{MO(O2)2}4]3–. A possible structure for [M2O3(O2)4]2– is suggested.