Efficient oxidation of benzyl alcohol on copper phyllosilicate catalysts

Two copper phyllosilicates were prepared via co-precipitation accompanied by hydrothermal treatment at pH constant. The obtained materials were physically characterized by XRD, H2-TPR, TEM, BET and XPS techniques. The results indicated that Cu(II) ions were successfully intercalated into the phyllosilicate framework at a low Cu/Si molar ratio. The obtained solid possesses a layered structure, a high surface area, and a more reducibility. The synthesized materials were tested for the liquid oxidation of benzyl alcohol at mild conditions. It was found that the intra-lattice Cu2+ ions are more active than the extra-ones in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol. The oxidation proceeds through the radical mechanism, and the overall conversion of benzyl alcohol obtained approximately 45–50% with a major product of benzaldehyde. •Cu2+ ions are inserted into the octahedral sheets of phyllosilicates.•The octahedral lattice Cu2+ sites are selective for the formation of benzaldehyde.•The intra-lattice Cu2+ ions exhibit a high activity in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol.•The oxidation reaction occurs in a radical mechanism.