The catalytic electrophilic activation of hydrogen peroxide with transition metal compounds toward reaction with nucleophiles is a matter of
very significant research and practical interest. We have now found that use of perfluorinated alcoholic solvents such as 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexafluoro-
2-propanol in the absence of catalysts allowed electrophilic activation of hydrogen peroxide toward epoxidation of alkenes and the Baeyer−
Villiger oxidation of ketones.