Selective oxidation of styrene on an oxygen-covered Au(111)

For the first time, we demonstrate olefin epoxidation promoted by an extended Au surface. The oxidation of styrene to styrene epoxide, benzoic acid, and benzeneacetic acid is promoted on Au(111) covered with 0.2 ML of oxygen atoms. The estimated selectivity for styrene epoxide formation is approximately 53%. Total combustion to CO2 accounts for approximately 20% of the styrene reaction. We propose that styrene epoxide, benzoic acid, and benzeneacetic acid are produced via two possible oxametallacycle intermediates. Our work demonstrates that extended Au is an effective material for olefin oxidation, which has implications for understanding the activity of nanoscale Au catalysts.