Heterogeneous Catalytic Epoxidation of Olefins Over Hydrothermally Synthesized Lanthanide Containing Framework Compounds

A series of novel complexes [Ln2(N3)(nic)2(OH)3(Hnic)(H2O)]n (Ln = YIII 1 and GdIII 2; Hnic = nicotinic acid) and [Sm4(N3)2(nic)4(OH)6(Hnic)2(H2O)2]n (3) have been hydrothermally synthesized and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray analysis. Complexes 1, 2 and 3 have similar structures and consist of [Ln2(N3)(nic)2(OH)3(Hnic)(H2O)] units that are linked to neighboring units through end‐on azido, μ2 and μ3 hydroxo, and bridging carboxylato groups to form 1D infinite chains. In all the complexes the 1D chains propagate parallel to crystallographic a‐axis to give rise to a ribbon‐like chain structure. All the compounds exhibit excellent catalytic performance in olefin epoxidation reactions, which is reflected in high turnover numbers. Good expoxide selectivity was obtained in the cases of cyclooctene and 1‐hexene. The possibility of easy recycling makes these catalysts highly promising candidates for addressing industrial needs and environmental concerns.