Magnesium monoperoxyphthalate (MMPP) is a water-soluble peroxy acid used as an oxidant in organic synthesis. Its main areas of use are the conversion of ketones to esters (Baeyer-Villiger oxidation), epoxidation of alkenes (Prilezhaev reaction), oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides and sulfones, oxidation of amines to produce amine oxides, and in the oxidative cleavage of hydrazones.[1]
Due to its insolubility in non-polar solvents MMPP has seen less use than the more widely used meta-chloroperoxybenzoic acid (mCPBA). Although work up procedures are more simply handled in polar solvents, usage of MMPP to oxidize nonpolar substrates in biphasic media combined with a phase transfer catalyst have been inefficient.[1] Despite this MMPP has certain advantages over mCPBA including a lower cost of production and increased stability.[1]
MMPP is also used as the active ingredient in certain surface disinfectants such as Dismozon Pur.[2] As a surface disinfectant MMPP exhibits a broad spectrum biocidal effect including inactivation of endospores.[3] Its wide surface compatibility enables its use on sensitive materials, such as plastic and rubber equipment used in hospitals. Additionally MMPP has been investigated as a potential antibacterial agent for mouthwashes and toothpaste.[4]