Graphene Oxide Foam Supported Titanium(IV): Recoverable Heterogeneous Catalyst for Efficient, Selective Oxidation of Arylalkyl Sulfides to Sulfoxides Under Mild Conditions

Abstract

Abstract An efficient and environmentally friendly method was designed for the oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides with a recyclable, carbon-skeleton-based heterogeneous catalyst developed by titanium sulfate [Ti(SO4)2] mineralization on the surface of graphene oxide foam [Ti(SO4)2@GOF] by using 30 wt% H2O2 as oxidant. Several different substituted sulfides were examined to explore the scope of substrates of the selective oxidation. The excellent reusability and durability of Ti(SO4)2@GOF was demonstrated by recycling experiments and the catalyst was further applied in the preparation of pantoprazole sodium in a one-pot process.