Iodoxybenzoic acid (IBX) supported multi walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) derivatives have been prepared as easily recyclable solid reagents. These compounds have been shown to be able to mimic the alcohol dehydrogenases and monooxygenases promoted oxidation of aromatic alcohols to corresponding aldehydes. Their reactivity was found to be dependent on the degree of functionalization of MWCNTs as well as from the chemical properties of the spacers used to bind IBX on the surface of the support. Au-decorated MWCNTs and the presence of longer spacers resulted in the optimal experimental conditions. A high conversion of the substrates and yield of desired products were obtained.
Keywords: IBX; MWCNTs; aromatic alcohols; gold; oxidation; supported IBX.