The Catalytic Function of Ferrous Iron in Oxidations with Hydrogen Peroxide

The catalytic oxidation of substances by Hydrogen Peroxide in the presence of Ferrous Salts has been studied. It has been found that experimental evidence supports strongly the contention that the actual catalyst contains Iron in the Ferric state - probably of the nature of a Basic Ferric Salt. In this way is explained the failure of Normal Ferric Salts to catalyse such oxidations and the inhibiting action of low pHs brought about by the presence of mineral acids. The view has been advanced that catalysis is effected by the production of a highly oxygenated complex compound of Iron by the interaction of the Basic Ferric Salt noted above and Hydrogen Peroxide. The scheme suggested differs essentially from that which holds that oxidation is brought about by the reduction of Ferric Iron to the Ferrous state. It also negatives the views of Mummery who believes that only compounds containing Ferrous Iron are involved. In this respect also it differs from that of Kuchlin and Boeseken though not antagonistic to their idea that complexes with the substrate may play a part in such oxidations. The scheme advanced purports also to explain the reactions involved, though no information can be given as to the structure of the compounds taking part in the reactions. From these observations information has been gained as to the best method for the practical use of such systems