Partial oxidation of light alkanes by periodate and chloride salts.

The efficient and selective partial oxidation of light alkanes using potassium periodate and potassium chloride is reported. Yields of methane functionalization in trifluoroacetic acid reach >40% with high selectivity for methyl trifluoroacetate. Periodate and chloride also functionalize ethane and propane in good yields (>20%).