Catalytic olefin epoxidation with η⁵-cyclopentadienyl molybdenum complexes

Applications of η⁵-cyclopentadienyl molybdenum complexes as catalysts for achiral and chiral epoxidation of olefins are reviewed. The discussion is categorized according to the different complex types which arise from the variety of ancillary ligands coordinated to the (η⁵-C₅R₅)Mo moiety. The yields and turnover frequencies (TOFs) achieved under standard conditions with these different catalysts have been considered and thus, an assessment of the dependence of catalytic activity on the ligand environment is presented.