A Robust Mn Catalyst for H₂O₂ Disproportionation in Aqueous Solution

Abstract

Abstract The pyridinophane complex [Mn(Py 2 N 2 )(H 2 O) 2 ] 2+ catalyses the disproportionation of H 2 O 2 in aqueous solution over a wide pH range. Kinetic investigations reveal an induction period, which is proposed to involve the formation of a hydroperoxo intermediate, as well as evidence for catalyst self‐inhibition. A catalytic cycle involving mononuclear intermediates has been proposed. Spectroscopic investigations under turnover conditions are consistent with this proposal and show that the resting state of the catalyst is a mononuclear Mn II complex. The robustness of the catalyst is evidenced by its ability to achieve turnover numbers of 58000 in aqueous solution.