PEEKWC microcapsules for selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols to aldehydes

In this study, we report on the preparation, characterization and use of new catalytic polymeric microcapsules for the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols to benzaldehydes. The catalyst, ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate, was entrapped inside modified polyetheretherketone (PEEKWC) polymeric microcapsules during their preparation. Catalytic activity of the new PEEKWC microcapsules has been evaluated in the oxidation of substituted benzyl alcohols to benzaldehydes using hydrogen peroxide as oxidant. EDX analysis of the catalytic microcapsules showed a satisfactorily catalyst distribution on the shell and on the inner core. Proof of successful entrapment of catalyst inside polymeric matrix during the preparation was given by the different colorimetric reactions between the catalytic PEEKWC microcapsules and the oxidant (hydrogen peroxide). An interesting structure-reactivity behaviour, that may indeed be induced by the interaction between the polymeric membrane and the substrate, has been observed. PEEKWC catalytic microcapsules were stable under oxidation conditions and can be recycled without a loss of activity