Synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of meso-niobium phosphate in the oxidation of benzyl alcohols

[Display omitted] ► Mesoporous niobium phosphate was synthesized by using SDS as structure directing agent and the surface area was 263m2g−1. ► Mesoporous niobium phosphate improved the conversion of benzyl alcohols in the oxidation reaction with hydrogen peroxide. ► Better conversion and selectivity were obtained for the oxidation of 1-phenylethanol. In this work mesoporous niobium phosphate was synthesized hydrothermally by using SDS as the structure directing agent. The catalysts were characterized by N2 adsorption, DRX, 31P MAS NMR and FTIR. The activity of commercial and synthesized niobium phosphate catalysts were evaluated through the oxidation of benzyl alcohol and 1-phenylethanol in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Good conversion and selectivity to oxidation products were obtained in mild conditions.