Recently, Ni molecular catalysis has been extensively
applied in
oxygenation reactions. This work is underpinned by the characterization
techniques and the discovered instability of the Ni-bipyridine/phenanthroline
system, which results in Ni (hydr)oxide production under oxidative
conditions. The practical applications of this mechanism by employing
a prepared Ni (hydr)oxide-based electrode specifically in the oxygenation
of sulfides, achieving noteworthy yields in contrast to noncatalyst
control experiments, are explored. Thus, a Ni (hydr)oxide-based material
is proposed as a candidate for the true catalyst for sulfide oxidation
in the presence of the Ni-bipyridine/phenanthroline system. The findings
of this study are expected to stimulate discussion and encourage new
viewpoints within the chemical community regarding the potential applications
and mechanisms of molecular catalysts in oxidation reactions.