Nitrous oxide as a selective oxidant for ketonization of C=C double bonds in organic compounds

The oxidation chemistry of nitrous oxide (N₂O) includes a wide range of both catalytic and non-catalytic selective oxidation reactions. This review summarizes the results of modern experimental and theoretical studies devoted to non-catalytic oxidation reactions ofN₂Owith carbon ± carbon double bonds of alkenes and polymers. It is shown that these reactions open up a promising way for the synthesis of diverse carbonyl compounds (ketones and aldehydes) as well as a new type of functionalized oligomersDunsaturated polyketones. Possible applications of unsaturated polyketones, as well as economic aspects of N₂O production and use as a selective oxidant are discussed.