Sn-based catalysts for Baeyer-Villiger oxidations by using hydrogen peroxide as oxidant

Baeyer-Villiger (BV) oxidation is one of the most important transformation reactions in synthetic organic chemistry. Catalytic versions of the BV oxidation are particularly attractive in practical applications, because the catalytic transformation substantially simplifies reaction process while minimizing reactant consumption as well as waste production. Further benefits are expected from replacing peracids, the traditionally used oxidant, by low cost and environmentally friendly hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This review will first introduce very briefly the features of BV oxidation reactions, and the corresponding oxidants traditionally used. Afterwards, the emphasis will be placed on the specific Sn-based catalysts, their performance comparison for the BV oxidation reaction by using H2O2 as oxidant, and the catalytic mechanisms of most Sn-based catalysts reported so far, including homogeneous Sn-based catalysts (such as Sn-based fluorous biphase system catalysts), heterogeneous Sn-based catalysts (such as Sn-based zeolite catalysts, Sn-based mesoporous composites, Sn-incorporated clay catalysts, Sn-based metal oxide composites and polymer supported Sn catalysts). Finally, the Sn-based catalysts for BV oxidation are outlooked for their potentials and perspectives in enhancing the performance and then accelerating the practical applications of BV oxidations by using H2O2. The developing direction of the Sn-based catalytic BV reaction is also illustrated.