Cobalt pivalate complex as a catalyst for liquid phase oxidation of n-hexane

Catalytic properties of cobalt(II) pivalate complex as both individual and supported on mesoporous molecular sieves Si-KIT-6, Al-KIT-6, and Ce-KIT-6 were investigated in liquid-phase oxidation of n-hexane with molecular oxygen. This complex was shown to be an active and selective catalyst for the oxidation of n-C6H14 into C1–C4 carboxylic acids. The activity of Co(II) pivalate remains practically unchanged on heterogenizing the complex on molecular sieve supports. At the same time, its selectivity and resistance towards an oxidative degradation are slightly increased.