Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation

R₂CO + RCO₃H → R₂CO₂ (ester or lactone)

Overview

A peracid oxidizes a ketone by inserting an oxygen atom between the carbonyl carbon and an adjacent carbon, converting the ketone to an ester or lactone. The more substituted group migrates preferentially (migratory aptitude). This reaction is named after Adolf von Baeyer and Victor Villiger who discovered it in 1899.

Everyday Example

The Baeyer-Villiger oxidation is used in the synthesis of caprolactone, the monomer for biodegradable polycaprolactone used in medical sutures.

Industrial Importance

Caprolactone production by Baeyer-Villiger oxidation of cyclohexanone supports the biodegradable plastic and medical device industries.

Properties

Type: Organic
Reversible: No
Energy: Exothermic
ΔH: -180.0 kJ/mol

Related Reactions

Aldol Condensation of Acetaldehyde Amide Formation (Acetic Acid + Ammonia) Beckmann Rearrangement (Cyclohexanone Oxime) Bromination of Ethylene Buchwald-Hartwig Amination Cannizzaro Reaction of Formaldehyde Catalytic Hydrogenation of Ethylene Claisen Condensation (Ethyl Acetate) Condensation Polymerization (Nylon 6,6) Cope Rearrangement

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation?

The balanced equation is: R₂CO + RCO₃H → R₂CO₂ (ester or lactone).

What type of reaction is Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation?

Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation is a organic reaction.

Is Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation exothermic or endothermic?

Baeyer-Villiger Oxidation is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -180.0 kJ/mol.