Miceller catalysed oxidative decarboxylation of iso-butyric acid by acidic permanganate

A kinetic study of oxidation of iso-butyric acid has been investigated in presence and absence of sodium lauryl sulphate (NaLS) an anionic micelle. The reaction proceeds in two stages, in which first stage is followed by second fast stage process. Role of micelle is observed as positive catalyst. A first order kinetics is observed with respect to substrate and oxidant. The data has been examined in the light of Zucker-Hammett, Bunnett and Bunnett-Olsen criteria of reaction mechanism.The stiochiometry was observed in terms of mole ratio of permanganate ion and iso-butyric acid consumed. Effect of specific ions on the reaction rate has also been reported. Activation parameters for the reaction are evaluated and the mechanism pertient to the observed data has been suggested.