Selective Oxidation of [RhI(cod)]+ by H2O2 and O2

Abstract

2-Rhodaoxetanes have thus far not been invoked as intermediates in rhodium-catalysed oxidation of olefins. Oxygenation of one COD double bond in cationic complexes [′N3′RhI(cod)]+ by H2O2 and O2 is now found to result in 2-rhodaoxetanes that subsequently rearrange (see figure). Insight into their modes of formation and rearrangement might contribute to a better understanding of late transition metal catalysed oxidation of olefins.