Design a new unsymmetrical Schiff base chiral Co‑complex containing ionic liquid groups as a reusable green catalyst in the epoxidation of alkenes

Abstract

The novelty of this study lies in the successful development of a chiral magnetic catalyst, L-Co(II)-γ-Fe2O3, through the integration of a chiral Schiff base ligand with ionic liquid moieties. This unique catalyst was thoroughly characterized using various analytical techniques, showcasing its robust structure and composition. The remarkable catalytic performance of this system was demonstrated in the selective epoxidation of alkenes, highlighting its high enantioselectivity and notable solubility enhancement due to the ionic liquid groups. Moreover, the investigation of different oxidants revealed the catalyst’s exceptional efficiency, particularly with H2O2, oxone, and O 2. The added advantage of magnetic separation capability further accentuates the novelty of this work, enabling the catalyst’s reusability and sustainability over multiple reaction cycles.