Synthesis and properties of hydrophobic [Mn-2(IV)(mu-O)(3)(L)(2)](2+) complexes, derived from alkyl substituted 1,4,7-triazacyclononane ligands

A series of manganese complexes of 1,4,7,-trimethyl-1,4,7-triazacyclononane homologues has been prepared. The ligand bears on position 1 or 2, alkyl a nd/or benzyl substituents resulting in an increase of lipophilicity of the coordination complex measured by the log P values. The lipophilic complexes dissolve well in organic solvents like dichloromethane. This permits them to be used as homogenous catalysts in two phase epoxidation of lipophilic s ubstrate like styrene and dodecene using hydrogen peroxide as oxidant. Also the most lipophilic complexes activate hydrogen peroxide for bactericidal activity. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.