Catalytic oxyfunctionalization of alkanes by manganese and ruthenium clusters

Di- and trinuclear clusters of manganese and ruthenium were used as catalysts in the oxidation of alkanes in the presence oftert-butyl hydroperoxide as oxidant. The investigations reveal marked differences in the reactivity of the manganese and ruthenium catalysts though structurally they have similar coordination environment. The probable mechanism of hydroxylation in these systems is discussed.