A series of cobalt porphyrins derived from hemin was prepared as cytochrome P450 models. Effects of substituents at the cobalt deuteroporphyrin-propionate side chains are investigated in oxidation of toluene with air to benzaldehyde and benzyl alcohol without the use of solvent and sacrificial co-reductant. The catalytic activity of cobalt porphyrins depends on the type of substituents. When the electron-withdrawing groups like -Cl, -Br, were introduced into the double propionate side chains, they can increase the catalyst stability and selectivity to benzaldehyde. In comparison with these electron-withdrawing groups, the electron-donor groups, such as -CH3, -S-S- and -NH2 groups, can improve their catalytic activities. Moreover, the electron-donor group containing an unpaired electron (such as -S-S-, -NH2) is benefit for improving its catalytic efficiency and promoting the electron delivery. It can be concluded that the double propionate side chains in the deuteroporphyrin complex may participate in oxidation process and effect electron transfer from the high-valent metalloporphyrin species to the substrate.
Keywords: Catalyst; Cobalt porphyrin; Deuteroporphyrin; Hemim; Oxidation of toluene.