Abstract
Copper(II) complexes [Cu(L)(2)]center dot nH(2)O, where L is 3-(p-X-)-4-hydroxy-l, 2-naphthoquinone (for L1, X=H; L2, X=CH3; L3, X=Cl; L4, X=Br; and L5, X=NO2), have been synthesized and characterized by analytical, electrochemical, spectroscopic (IR, UV-Vis, ESR, and H-1 NMR), and magnetic methods. From the data obtained, square-planar geometry has been assigned for all the complexes. [CuL1]center dot H2O exhibits catalytic activity for oxidation of benzyl alcohol, piperonyl alcohol, and cinnamyl alcohol into their respective aldehydes in the presence of H2O2 as co-oxidant and in CH3CN and H2O as solvents at room temperature.