| abstract |
[PROBLEMS] To efficiently oxidize a heterocyclic compound with oxygen, The corresponding oxides, for example, heterocyclic carboxylic acids, heterocyclic ketones, etc. are formed. SOLUTION: In the presence of an imide compound such as N-hydroxyphthalimide or an oxidation catalyst composed of this imide compound and a cocatalyst, a heterocyclic compound is contacted with oxygen to generate a corresponding oxide. The promoter may be a transition metal compound. Oxidation of a heterocyclic compound having a methyl group or a methylene group at a position adjacent to an aromatic heterocyclic ring produces a corresponding heterocyclic carboxylic acid or heterocyclic ketone, and a non-aromatic compound having a methylene carbon atom at a position adjacent to the hetero atom. By oxidizing the aromatic heterocyclic compound, an oxo group can be introduced into the methylene carbon atom. |