Epoxidation of cyclohexene by ethyl-benzene hydroperoxide in the presence of molybdenum catalyst

A study has been made of the kinetic experimental pattern and mechanism of epoxidation of cyclohexene by ethylbenzene hydroperoxide during catalysis by Mo(CO)6 in various solvents. A first order of reaction with respect to the catalyst and complex order of reaction with respect to the hydroperoxide and olefine have been established. Simple (square and cross) inhibition by reaction products, cyclohexene oxide and methylphenylcarbinol, have been found. An increase in the dielectric constant of the solvent diminishes the epoxidation rate. The mechanism scheme of the process is proposed and main kinetic parameters calculated