Selective oxidation of light alkanes under mild conditions

Methanotrophs mediate the conversion of methane (CH₄) into methanol selectively and efficiently near ambient conditions so we can learn from microbes to develop biomimetic catalysts capable of performing this difficult chemistry. This review highlights the development of a tricopper cluster catalyst that functions similar to the particulate methane monooxygenase enzyme in methanotrophic bacteria. The performance of this catalytic system formulated for quasi-heterogeneous catalysis is compared with other heterogeneous catalysts derived from Cu- and Fe-based zeolites and Cu mordenites known to activate CH₄ stoichiometrically near 200 °C. We also highlight a unique catalytic system, in which the oxidizing power of both O atoms of the O₂ molecule can be harnessed for oxidation of toluene to yield benzaldehyde at room temperature.