A catalyst composition for the production of carboxylic acids by the oxidation
of the corresponding unsaturated aldehydes, and methods for making and using the
catalyst compositions. The catalysts include compositions of the formula:
MoaVbAlcXdYeOz
wherein X is at least one element selected from W and Mn; Y is at least one
element selected from Pd, Sb, Ca, P, Ga, Ge, Si, Mg, Nb, and K; a is 1; b is 0.01-0.9;
c is 00.2; d is 00.5; e is 00.5; and z is an integer representing
the number of oxygen atoms required to satisfy the valency of the remaining elements
in the composition. Using the catalyst composition of the present invention, one
may effectively oxidize the desired starting materials at relatively high levels
of conversion, selectivity, and productivity, and with minimal side products.
