Alkane Conversion using Homogeneous Processes: Iodate and Periodate Mediated Alkane Functionalization

The selective and low temperature conversion of alkanes to functionalized products has been a long-standing challenge. In protic media, the reaction of light alkanes (methane, ethane, propane) with iodate or periodate salts results in the conversion to oxidized products. The addition of catalytic quantities of chloride (e.g., sodium chloride, potassium chloride) substantially enhances the efficiency of the alkane functionalization using iodate or periodate as oxidant. The transformations are effective over a broad range of temperatures (100 - 235 ºC) and pressures (240-6900 kPa) in non-superacidic media. Alkane conversions between 15% and 40% with selectivity for mono-functionalized products between 85% and 95% have been achieved. The presentation will focus on results from alkane conversion as well as preliminary mechanistic studies.