Aqueous catalysis by novel macromolecule metal complexes with molecular recognition abilities

A number of water-soluble macromolecular metal complexes on the basis of po lyethers, beta -cyclodextrins, calix[4] and calix[6]arenes functionalized b y oligoethylene oxide blocks, catechol, ethylendiamine, acetylacetone, 2,2' -dipiridyl, phosphines and nitrile containing groups have been developed. C omplexes showed high catalytic activity in aqueous hydroformylation, biphas ic Wacker-type oxidation of various higher olefines, alkane oxidation, hydr oxylation of benzene and phenol. These catalysts can be multiply reused. Th e application of host compounds results the extremely selectivities. Copyri ght (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.