Catalytic systems and methods for oxidizing materials in the presence of
metal catalysts (preferably manganese-containing catalysts) complexed with selected
macropolycyclic rigid ligands, preferably cross-bridged macropolycyclic ligands.
Included are using these metal catalysts in such processes as: synthetic organic
oxidation reactions such as oxidation of organic functional groups, hydrocarbons,
and heteroatoms, including enantiomeric epoxidation of alkenes, enynes, sulfides
to sulfones and the like; oxidation of oxidizable compounds (e.g., stains) on surfaces
such as fabrics, dishes, countertops, dentures and the like; oxidation of oxidizable
compounds in solution, dye transfer inhibition in the laundering of fabrics; and
further in the bleaching of pulp and paper products.
