N-Hydroxyphthalimide as a Catalyst of Cumene Oxidation with Hydroperoxide

Cumene oxidation with 1-methyl-1-phenylethyl hydroperoxide catalyzed by N-hydroxyphthalimide or its derivatives and transition metal salts has been studied. Effects of the type of metal compound (Co(II), Mn(II) or Cu(II) chloride, acetate or acetylacetonate), amounts of N-hydroxyphthalimide and metal salt as well as temperature were established. The highest yields of dicumyl peroxide (48-54%) were obtained, when reaction was performed at 60-70°C, in the presence of the NHPI/CuCl 2 catalytic system, in acetonitrile as a solvent. Similar yield of dicumyl peroxide (43%) was obtained in solvent-free medium.