Micellar catalysis in the oxidation of acetophenones by Ce(IV)

Abstract

Abstract Rate of oxidation of acetophenones by Ce(IV) in aqueous acetic acid 80:20 (v/v) either slows down or remains constant over a range of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) concentration exceeding the cmc value. The rate is then found to increase sharply as the surfactant concentration increases with no sign of reaching a maximum or constant value. From Fluorescence quenching, binding constant for p ‐nitro acetophenone has been evaluated. The rate data have been rationalized on the basis of a reaction between the acetophenones situated on the micelle surface and active Ce(IV) species in the bulk aqueous phase.