Patent Description:
Ethylene glycol, as an important raw material and an intermediate for organic chemical industry, is mainly used for producing polyester fibers, bottle resin, films, engineering plastics, antifreeze and coolant, and also used as a raw material for producing a large number of chemical products such as plasticizers, desiccants, lubricants and the like, with a very wide application (<NPL>). By <NUM>, the global annual demand for ethylene glycol was as high as <NUM> million tons (http://www. com/business-customers/chemicals/products-speeds-and-adhesives/products/mono-ethylene-glycol. At present, ethylene glycol is mainly produced by a direct hydration process of ethylene oxide in industry. In order to reduce the content of by-products such as diethylene glycol and triethylene glycol, the technique requires that the reaction is carried out at <NUM>-<NUM>, more than <NUM> MPa and a feed molar ratio of water to ethylene oxide (called as water ratio) of <NUM>-<NUM>: <NUM>, so that the water content in the product is up to <NUM> wt. To remove such a large amount of water, a multi-effect evaporation system is required and a large amount of steam is consumed (e.g., <NUM> tons of steam are consumed for producing <NUM> ton of ethylene glycol when the water ratio is <NUM>: <NUM>), which ultimately results in a large energy consumption, complicated equipment, long process flow, and high production cost for the whole preparation process of ethylene glycol (<NPL>; <NPL>; <NPL>). Therefore, the development of the ethylene oxide catalytic hydration technology with low water ratio is expected to realize energy conservation and consumption reduction, and the core is the development of the catalyst.

Heretofore, various catalysts have been developed, such as anion/cation exchange resins (<CIT>; <NPL>; <NPL>), supported metal oxides (<CIT>; <NPL>), Sn zeolites (<CIT>; <NPL>), and the like. However, these catalysts still require a high water ratio (≥<NUM>: <NUM>) or a long reaction time (≥<NUM>) for good catalytic performance. In a recent breakthrough progress, the nanocage catalyst FDU-<NUM>-[Co(Salen) X] (X = OAc-/OTs-) (<CIT>; <NPL>; <NPL>) developed by Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics can obtain ethylene glycol with a yield of more than <NUM>% at a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>. However, FDU-<NUM>-[Co(Salen)X] (X = OAc-/OTs-) has poor stability, which needs to be activated for good recycling property and severely limits the industrial application. Therefore, there is a strong need in the art to develop a catalyst having high activity for the hydration of alkylene oxide to produce glycol at a low water ratio and a short reaction time and having good recyclability without activation.

<NPL> discloses a CoIII(salen)-OTS@FDU12 (OTS = toluene sulfonate, a substituted benzene sulfonate). <NPL>, discloses FDU-<NUM>-[CoIII-(salen)]. <CIT> discloses nanocaged Co(salen)X complexes, wherein X = Cl or OTS. <CIT> describes chiral salen catalysts. <CIT> describes a salen-type compound which contains an amino group and an oxy or hydroxy group connected by a hydrocarbon.

The invention aims to provide a catalyst having high activity and good recycling performance without activation for producing glycol by hydrating alkylene oxide under both high and low water ratios and short reaction time, and a process of preparing same, so as to solve the problems that the catalyst for producing glycol by hydrating alkylene oxide in the prior art needs high water ratio and can have good recycling performance only after activation. The catalyst provided by the invention has high activity for producing glycol by hydrating alkylene oxide under both high and low water ratios and short reaction time, and has good recycling performance without activation; the preparation process provided by the invention is simple and feasible, and can provide reference for the synthesis of other nanocage-confined catalysts.

The present invention is defined in and by the appended claims.

In a first aspect, disclosed is a nanocage-confined catalyst, having a formula of:.

wherein NC is a material having a nanocage structure, and the sub-formula (I-<NUM>), M(Salen1)X, and the sub-formula (I-<NUM>), M'(Salen2), are active centers, respectively; each occurrence of M is independently selected from the group consisting of Co ion, Fe ion, Ga ion, Al ion, Cr ion, and a mixture thereof; each occurrence of M' is independently selected from the group consisting of Cu ion, Ni ion and a mixture thereof; m is <NUM> to <NUM>; n is <NUM> to <NUM>, with the proviso that at least one of m and n is not <NUM>; each occurrence of Salen1 and Salen2 is independently a derivative of the class of Shiff bases; x is an axial anion, selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted acetate, unsubstituted benzene sulfonate, unsubstituted benzoate, a halide anion (e.g., F-, Cl-, Br-, I-, SbF<NUM>-, PF<NUM>-, BF<NUM>-, and a mixture thereof.

In one embodiment, each occurrence of M is independently selected from Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, Cr<NUM>+ and a mixture thereof.

In one embodiment, each occurrence of M' is independently selected from Cu<NUM>+, Ni<NUM>+, and a mixture thereof.

According to the invention, m and n are integers, indicating the number of categories of the active center in the sub-formulas (I-<NUM>) and (I-<NUM>) of the catalyst. For example, in one embodiment, the catalyst can be NC-<NUM>[M(Salen1)X]-<NUM>[M'(Salen2)], which means that the catalyst is formed from <NUM> different categories of active centers of formula (I-<NUM>) combined with <NUM> category of active center of formula (I-<NUM>), such as NC-<NUM>[Fe(Salen1)OAc]-<NUM>[Ga(Salen1)OTs]-<NUM>[Cu(Salen2)], indicating that <NUM> categories of active centers respectively with the structures of [Fe(Salen1)OAc], [Ga(Salen1)OTs], and [Cu(Salen2)] are used together. For another example, in one embodiment, the catalyst may be NC-<NUM>[Ga(Salen1)SbF<NUM>]- <NUM>[Al(Salen1)Cl]-<NUM>[Cu(Salen2)], indicating that [Ga(Salen1)SbF<NUM>] and [Al(Salen1)Cl] are used together; accordingly, the catalyst may be collectively represented as NC-[Ga(Salen1)SbF<NUM>]-[Al(Salen1)Cl].

The ratio of the amount of active centers of sub-formula (I-<NUM>) to that of sub-formula (I-<NUM>) in the catalyst of formula (I) is not particularly restricted. In one embodiment, the molar ratio of the active centers between sub-formulas (I-<NUM>) and (I-<NUM>) is in the range of from <NUM> to <NUM>, such as from <NUM> to <NUM>, or from <NUM> to <NUM>, or from <NUM> to <NUM>.

According to the invention m is <NUM> to <NUM>, and n is <NUM> to <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment, m is <NUM>, n is <NUM> to <NUM>, and each occurrence of M(Salenl)X is same or different. In a preferred embodiment, m is <NUM>, n is <NUM>, and each occurrence of M(Salen1)X is same or different.

In the embodiment above, when m is <NUM>(Salen1)X in each occurrence of (I-<NUM>) is independently same or different.

In one embodiment, m is <NUM>, n is <NUM>, M is not Co, and X is not a halogen; and when m is <NUM>, at least one X is SbF<NUM>-, and preferably, another X is F-, Cl-, Br-or I-.

According to the invention the NC represents mesoporous silica nanoparticles having a nanocage structure or organic hybrid mesoporous silica nanoparticles having a nanocage structure.

In one embodiment, preferably, the NC includes SBA-<NUM>, SBA-<NUM>, FDU-<NUM>, FDU-<NUM>, KIT-<NUM>, AMS-<NUM>, and the like.

In one embodiment, preferably, the Shiff base derivative is N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine or a substituted N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine, such as (1R,2R)-N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine or a substituted (1R,2R) -N, N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine.

In a first exemplary variant of the nanocage-confined catalyst the catalyst may have formula (I-<NUM>) or (I-<NUM>) of:.

wherein, M(Salen1)X and M'(Salen2) are respectively active centers, in which M and M' are metal ion, where M comprises Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+ and Cr<NUM>+, and M' comprises Cu<NUM>+ and Ni<NUM>+, X is an axial anion, and Salen1 and Salen2 have the same definition as the Salen1 and Salen2 in the first aspect, namely, being Shiff base derivatives.

In one embodiment of the above first exemplary variant, preferably, X comprises acetate, benzenesulfonate, benzoate, substituted acetate, substituted benzenesulfonate, and substituted benzoate.

In a second exemplary variant of the nanocage-confined catalyst the catalyst may have formula (II-<NUM>) of:.

NC-[M(Salen1)SbF<NUM>-M(Salen1)X]     (II-<NUM>);.

wherein M(Salen1)SbF<NUM>-M(Salen1)X is an active center, M is a metal ion, Salen1 is a Shiff base derivative, X is an axial anion, and X is a halide anion.

In one embodiment of the second exemplary variant above, preferably, M comprises Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, Cr<NUM>+.

In one embodiment of the second exemplary variant above, preferably, the halide anion is F-, Cl-, Br-, or I-.

In a third exemplary variant of the nanocage-confined catalyst the catalyst may have formula (III) of:.

wherein M(Salenl)X is an active center, M is a metal ion, M comprises Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+, Salen is a Shiff base derivative, X is an axial anion, and X is PF<NUM>-, or BF<NUM>-.

In one embodiment of the third exemplary variant above, Salen1 has the same definition as Salen1 or Salen2 described in the first aspect.

In a fourth exemplary variant of the nanocage-confined catalyst the catalyst may have formula (II-<NUM>) of:.

NC-[Co(Salen1)SbF<NUM>-M(Salen1)X]     (II-<NUM>),.

In formula (II-<NUM>), M is a metal ion, NC and Salen1 each independently have the same definition as in one of the embodiments according to the foregoing first aspect and the first to the third exemplary variants, and X is a halide anion.

In one embodiment of the above fourth exemplary variant, preferably, M comprises Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+.

In one embodiment of the above fourth exemplary variant, preferably, the halide anion is F-, Cl-, Br-, or I-.

In a fifth exemplary variant of the nanocage-confined catalyst the catalyst may have formula (II-<NUM>) of:.

NC-[M(Salen1)SbF<NUM>-Co(Salen1)X]     (II-<NUM>),.

In formula (II-<NUM>), M is a metal ion, NC and Salen1 each independently have the same definition as in one of the embodiments according to the foregoing first aspect and the first to the fourth exemplary variants, and X is a halide anion.

In one embodiment of the fifth exemplary variant above, preferably, M comprises Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+.

In one embodiment of the fifth exemplary variant above, preferably, the halide anion is F-, Cl-, Br-, or I-.

In a sixth exemplary variant of the nanocage-confined catalyst the nanocage-confined catalyst of the present invention may have formula (III-<NUM>) or (III-<NUM>):.

wherein NC and Salen1 each independently have the same definitions as in one of the embodiments according to the aforementioned first aspect and the each exemplary variant thereof.

In each of the exemplary variants the active center, NC, M, Salen1, Salen2, X, m, n and the like involved have the same meaning as defined in the first aspect, unless otherwise specified in each exemplary variant.

The second aspect disclosed also provides a process of preparing the nanocage-confined catalyst, comprising the steps of:.

In one embodiment, the preparation process of the second aspect be used to prepare nanocage-confined catalysts according to the first aspect and each of the exemplary variants thereof.

In the above technical solution, preferably, the solvent includes at least one of dichloromethane, ethanol and methanol.

In the above technical solution, stirring and removing the solvent are preferably conducted at a temperature of -<NUM> to <NUM>, more preferably, <NUM>-<NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, the duration for stirring is <NUM> or more. In an exemplary embodiment, the solvent is removed by volatilizing the solvent with exposure to the ambient under stirring.

In the above technical solution, preferably, the encapsulation is conducted with an encapsulating agent. In one embodiment, in particular, encapsulation of the active centers is achieved with prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate or prehydrolyzed ethyl orthosilicate or a silane coupling agent.

The third aspect disclosed further provides use of the catalyst above or the catalyst prepared by the preparation process above in the reaction of producing glycol by hydration of alkylene oxide.

The conditions for the use comprise: a water ratio of ≥ <NUM>: <NUM>, a reaction time of <NUM>-<NUM>, and a yield of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol obtained by the hydration reaction of ethylene oxide or propylene oxide catalyzed for the first-through is ≥ <NUM>%, preferably ≥ <NUM>%; a yield of the ethylene glycol or the propylene glycol obtained by directly recycling the catalyst above for <NUM> time without activation regeneration is ≥ <NUM>%, preferably ≥ <NUM>%; and a yield of the ethylene glycol or the propylene glycol obtained by directly recycling the catalyst above for <NUM> times without activation regeneration is ≥ <NUM>%, preferably ≥ <NUM>%, and further preferably ≥ <NUM>%.

The catalyst according to the present invention as defined in the appended claims comprises a substrate material containing a nanocage structure and an active center of M(Salen1)X or M'(Salen2) confined in the nanocage, wherein M is Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, or Cr<NUM>+, M' is Cu<NUM>+ or Ni<NUM>+, Salen1 and Salen2 are Shiff base derivatives, and X is an axial anion. The process provided by the invention is simple and feasible, and provides reference for the synthesis of other nanocage-confined catalysts. The catalyst has high activity and good recycling performance without activation for producing glycol by hydrating alkylene oxide under both high and low water ratios and short reaction time, and good stability, which represent unexpected effects. The preparation process provided by the invention is simple and feasible, and can provide reference for the synthesis of other nanocage-confined catalysts.

The present invention will be further illustrated in more detail below, while it should be understood that the scope of the invention is not restricted by the embodiments, but is defined by the appended claims.

Unless defined specifically, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. In case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control.

All ranges involved herein are inclusive of their endpoints unless specifically stated otherwise. Further, when a range, one or more preferred ranges, or a plurality of preferable upper and lower limits, are given for an amount, concentration, or other value or parameter, it is to be understood that all ranges formed from any pair of any upper limit or preferred values thereof and any lower limit or preferred values thereof are specifically disclosed, regardless of whether such pairs of values are individually disclosed.

All percentages, parts, ratios, etc. involved in this specification are indicated by weight unless explicitly stated otherwise, unless the basis on weight does not conform to the conventional understanding by those skilled in the art.

"Ranges" as disclosed herein are given with lower and upper limits, e.g., one or more lower limits and one or more upper limits. A given range may be defined by selecting a lower limit and an upper limit that define the boundaries of the given range. All ranges defined in this manner are inclusive and combinable, i.e., any lower limit may be combined with any upper limit to form a range. For example, ranges of <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are listed for particular parameters, meaning that ranges of <NUM>-<NUM> and <NUM>-<NUM> are also contemplated. Furthermore, if the lower limits listed are <NUM> and <NUM> and the upper limits listed are <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM>, then the following ranges are all contemplated: <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

In this context, unless otherwise stated, a numerical range "a-b" represents an abbreviation for any combination of real numbers between a and b, where a and b are both real numbers. For example, a numerical range of "<NUM> to <NUM>" indicates that all real numbers between "<NUM> to <NUM>" have been listed herein, and "<NUM> to <NUM>" is simply an abbreviated representation of the combination of these numbers.

In this context, the ranges of the contents of the individual components of the composition and their preferred ranges can be combined with one another to form new technical solutions, unless stated otherwise.

As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the total amount of each component in percentages for all compositions add up to <NUM>%.

All embodiments and preferred embodiments mentioned herein can be combined with each other to form new technical solutions, unless otherwise stated.

All the technical features mentioned herein, as well as preferred features, can be combined with each other to form new technical solutions, unless stated otherwise.

In this context, all steps mentioned herein may be performed sequentially or randomly, but preferably sequentially, unless otherwise indicated. For example, the process comprises steps (a) and (b), meaning that the process may comprise steps (a) and (b) performed sequentially, and may also comprise steps (b) and (a) performed sequentially. For example, reference to the process further comprising step (c) means that step (c) may be added to the process in any order, for example, the process may comprise steps (a), (b) and (c), may also comprise steps (a), (c) and (b), may also comprise steps (c), (a) and (b), etc..

In this document, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "comprising," "including," "contain", "having," and similar words are to be construed as open-ended, but should also be construed to cover closed-ended situations as if all such situations were explicitly set forth. For example, "comprising" means not only the case where other elements not listed may be included, but also the case where only the listed elements are included. Furthermore, as used herein, "including/comprising" is interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components as referred to, but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. Additionally, the term "comprising" is intended to include embodiments encompassed by the terms "consisting essentially of. " and "consisting of. Similarly, the term "consisting essentially of. " is intended to include embodiments encompassed by the term "consisting of.

In this context, unless stated otherwise, specific steps, specific values and specific substances mentioned in the Examples may be combined with other features in other parts of the description. For example, where the Summary or Embodiment section of the specification refers to a reaction temperature of <NUM> to <NUM> and the examples describe a specific reaction temperature of <NUM>, it is to be understood that the range of <NUM> to <NUM> or the range of <NUM> to <NUM> has been specifically disclosed herein and may be combined with other features in other sections of the specification to form new embodiments.

According to the disclosure for example, the following exemplary embodiments are provided:
A nanocage-confined catalyst, characterized in that the catalyst is represented by the formula: NC-[M(Salen)X] or NC-[M'(Salen)], wherein NC is a material having a nanocage structure; M(Salen)X and M'(Salen) are active centers, in which M and M' are metal ion, M comprises Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+, M' comprises Cu<NUM>+ and Ni<NUM>+, Salen is a Shiff base derivative, and X is an axial anion.

X may comprise acetate, benzenesulfonate, benzoate, substituted acetate, substituted benzenesulfonate, and substituted benzoate.

NC may be mesoporous silica nanoparticles having a nanocage structure or organic hybrid mesoporous silica nanoparticles having a nanocage structure.

The NC may comprise SBA-<NUM>, SBA-<NUM>, FDU-<NUM>, FDU-<NUM>, KIT-<NUM>, and AMS-<NUM>.

The Shiff base derivative may be N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine or a substituted N, N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine.

A process of preparing a nanocage-confined catalyst, comprising the steps of:
adding an active center of M(Salen)X or M'(Salen) and nanocage material NC into a solvent, and stirring; removing the solvent; and encapsulating, to obtain the nanocage-confined catalyst.

M may comprise Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+, M' comprises Cu<NUM>+ and Ni<NUM>; Salen is a Shiff base derivative, X is an axial anion, and the X comprises acetate, benzene sulfonate, benzoate, substituted acetate, substituted benzene sulfonate and substituted benzoate.

The solvent may comprise at least one of dichloromethane, ethanol, and methanol.

The stirring and removing solvent may be conducted at a temperature of -<NUM> to <NUM>.

A catalyst as defined above, or a catalyst obtained by the process as defined above in a reaction of producing a glycol by hydration of an alkylene oxide.

A high performance nanocage-confined catalyst, characterized in that the catalyst has a formula of: NC-[M(Salen)SbF<NUM>]. M(Salen) X], wherein NC is a material having a nanocage structure; M(Salen)SbF<NUM>. M(Salen)X is an active center, in which M is a metal ion, Salen is a Shiff base derivative, and X is an axial anion and X is a halide anion.

The Shiff base derivative may be N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine or a substituted N,N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine.

The halide anion may be F-, Cl-, Br-, or I-.

A process of preparing a nanocage-confined catalyst comprising the steps of:
adding active centers M(Salen)SbF<NUM> and M(Salen)X, and nanocage material NC into a solvent, and stirring; removing the solvent; and encapsulating, to obtain the nanocage-confined catalyst.

M may be a metal ion, and M may comprise Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+, Salen is a Shiff base derivative, X is an axial anion, and X is a halide anion.

Use the catalyst as defined above or a catalyst obtained by the process as defined above in a reaction for producing glycol by hydration of alkylene oxide.

A catalyst for producing glycol by hydration of alkylene oxide, characterized in that the catalyst is a nanocage-confined catalyst having a formula of: NC-[M(Salen)X], wherein M(Salen)X is confined in NC, and NC is a material having a nanocage structure; M(Salen)X is an active center, M is metal ion, and M comprises Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+, Salen is a Shiff base derivative, X is an axial anion, and X is PF<NUM>-or BF<NUM>-.

The Shiff base derivative may be N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine or a N, N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine.

A process of preparing a catalyst for producing glycol by hydrating alkylene oxide, comprising the steps of:
dispersing an active center M(Salen)X and nanocage material NC into a solvent, stirring; removing the solvent; and adding an encapsulating agent for encapsulating, to obtain the nanocage-confined catalyst.

M may be a metal ion, and M may comprise Co<NUM>+, Fe<NUM>+, Ga<NUM>+, Al<NUM>+, and Cr<NUM>+, Salen is a Shiff base derivative, X is an axial anion, and X may comprise PF<NUM>-and BF<NUM>-.

The solvent may be removed by volatilizing the solvent through exposure to ambient under stirring.

Use of a catalyst as defined above, or a catalyst prepared by the process as defined above in a reaction of producing glycol by hydrating alkylene oxide.

<NUM> of F127, <NUM> of mesitylene and <NUM> of KCl were weighed and dissolved in <NUM> of <NUM> HCl aqueous solution at a temperature of <NUM>, and stirred for <NUM> hours; <NUM> TEOS was added, stirring was continued for <NUM> at <NUM> and then hydrothermal treatment was carried out in an oven at <NUM> for <NUM>, taken out, washed, dried, and calcinated at <NUM> for <NUM> to obtain the nanocage substrate material FDU-<NUM>. <NUM> of p-toluenesulfonic acid monohydrate and <NUM> of Fe (N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine) were weighed, dissolved in <NUM> of dichloromethane, and stirred at room temperature for <NUM> with exposure to the ambient, solvent was removed by spinning, and fully washed with n-hexane and dried, to obtain the active center Fe(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OTs. <NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Fe(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OTs, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst I-A.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of a mixed solution of <NUM> Ga(N,N'-bis(<NUM>,<NUM>-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine) OAc in ethanol and dichloromethane, sealed and stirred at <NUM> for <NUM> hours, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM>, until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst I-B.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of a methanol solution containing <NUM> of Al (N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OAc, sealed and stirred at <NUM> for <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst I-C.

<NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed into <NUM> of a mixed solution of methanol and ethanol containing <NUM> of Cr(N,N'-bis(<NUM>-di-tert-butylsalicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OAc, sealed and stirred at <NUM> for <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. <NUM> of toluene, <NUM> of p-toluenesulfonic acid and <NUM> mmol of trimethoxypropylsilane were added, refluxed overnight, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain the catalyst I-D.

<NUM> of KIT-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of an ethanol solution containing <NUM> of Cu(N,N'-bis(<NUM>-tert-butylsalicylidene) -<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine), sealed and stirred at <NUM> for <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated. <NUM> of toluene, <NUM> of p-toluenesulfonic acid and <NUM> mmol of trimethoxypropylsilane were added, refluxed overnight, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain the catalyst I-E.

<NUM> of AMS-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of ethanol solution containing <NUM> of Ni (N,N'-bis(<NUM>-tert-butylsalicylidene) -<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine), sealed and stirred at <NUM> for <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. <NUM> of toluene, <NUM> of p-toluenesulfonic acid and <NUM> mmol of trimethoxypropylsilane were added, refluxed overnight, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain the catalyst I-F.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of methanol solution containing <NUM> Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OTs, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain the catalyst I-G.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of catalyst I-A was evaluated under the condition of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>:<NUM>, a catalyst to ethylene oxide weight ratio of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM> hours. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used once was recovered from example I-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in example I-<NUM>. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used twice was recovered from example I-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in examples I-<NUM> and I-<NUM>. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-B was evaluated under the condition of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used twice was recovered from example I-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in examples I-<NUM> and <NUM>. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed and the performance of catalyst I-C was evaluated under the condition of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used twice was recovered from example I-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in examples I-<NUM> and <NUM>. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>. TABLE I-<NUM> Recycling performance of catalysts I-A, I-B and I-C.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-D was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-E was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-F was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a Table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-D was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-E was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-F was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-A was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-B was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-C was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst I-G was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table I-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used once was recovered from comparative example I-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in comparative example I-<NUM>. The results were shown in Table I-<NUM>.

<NUM> of F127, <NUM> of mesitylene and <NUM> of KCl were weighed and dissolved in <NUM> of <NUM> HCl aqueous solution at a temperature of <NUM>, and stirred for <NUM> hours; <NUM> TEOS was added, stirring was continued for <NUM> at <NUM> and then hydrothermal treatment was carried out in an oven at <NUM> for <NUM>, taken out, washed, dried, and calcinated at <NUM> for <NUM> to obtain the nanocage substrate material FDU-<NUM>. <NUM> of silver hexafluoroantimonate and <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine) were weighed and dissolved in <NUM> of dichloromethane, stirred for <NUM> hours in the dark with exposure to the ambient at room temperature, and suction filtration repeatedly with kieselguhr, and the filtrate was collected and dried by spinning to obtain the active center Co(N,N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM>. <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OTs was dissolved in <NUM> of methylene chloride, placed in a separatory funnel and washed three times with <NUM> of saturated sodium chloride, and dried over sodium sulfate, so as to remove the solvent, and the resulting solid was suspended in pentane and filtered to obtain the active center Co(N, N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)Cl. <NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM> and <NUM> of Co(N, N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)Cl, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst II-A.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of a mixed solution of ethanol and dichloromethane containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-bis (<NUM>,<NUM>-di-t-butyl salicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM> and <NUM> of Fe (N, N' -disalicylidene-<NUM>, <NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)F, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed ethyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst II-B.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of methanol solution containing <NUM> of Ga (N,N '-disalicylidene- <NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM> and <NUM> Al (N,N'-bis (<NUM>-t-butyl salicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cycloethylenediamine)Br, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed ethyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst II-C.

<NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of a mixed solution of methanol and ethanol containing <NUM> of Fe(N,N '-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM> and <NUM> Cr(N,N'-bis (<NUM>-t-butyl salicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cycloethylenediamine)I, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. <NUM> toluene, <NUM> para-toluenesulfonic acid and <NUM> mmol trimethoxy propyl silane were added, refluxed overnight, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst II-D.

<NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM>, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst II-E.

<NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cycloethylenediamine)Cl, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst II-F.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-A was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used once was recovered from example II-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in example II-<NUM>. The results were shown in Table II-<NUM>.

The catalyst having been used twice was recovered from example II-<NUM>, and was evaluated for its catalytic performance without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions as in examples II-<NUM> and <NUM>. The results were shown in Table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-B was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-C was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-D was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-C was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-D was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a Table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-A was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II-B was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II -E was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst II -F was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in a table II-<NUM>.

<NUM> of F127, <NUM> of mesitylene and <NUM> of KCl were weighed and dissolved in <NUM> of <NUM> HCl aqueous solution at a temperature of <NUM>, and stirred for <NUM> hours; <NUM> TEOS was added, stirring was continued for <NUM> at <NUM> and then hydrothermal treatment was carried out in an oven at <NUM> for <NUM>. Taken out, washed, dried, and calcinated at <NUM> for <NUM> to obtain the nanocage substrate material FDU-<NUM>. <NUM> of ferrocene hexafluorophosphate and <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-hexanaphthene diamine) were weighed, dissolved in a mixed solution of <NUM> dichloromethane and <NUM> acetonitrile, and stirred at room temperature for <NUM> with exposure to the ambient, solvent was removed by spinning, and fully washed with n-hexane and dried, to obtain the active center Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-hexanaphthene diamine)PF<NUM>. <NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)PF<NUM>, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-A.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Fe(N,N'-bis(<NUM>,<NUM>-di-t-butyl salicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)PF<NUM> sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-B.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Ga(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)PF<NUM>, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-C.

<NUM> of FDU-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Al(N,N'-bis(<NUM>-t-butyl salicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)PF<NUM> sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-D.

<NUM> of KIT-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Cr(N,N'-bis(<NUM>-t-butyl salicylidene)-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)PF<NUM>, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-E.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)BF<NUM>, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-F.

<NUM> of SBA-<NUM> was weighed and placed in <NUM> of dichloromethane solution containing <NUM> of Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OTs, sealed and stirred for <NUM> at <NUM>, and then stirred with exposure to the ambient at <NUM> until the solvent was evaporated out. Prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate was added, and stirred for <NUM>. Ethanol was added, centrifugally separated, fully washed, and dried to obtain catalyst III-G.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst III-A, III-B and III-C was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The catalysts III-A, III-B and III-C having been used were recovered, and were used for the following catalytic reactions (thus recycled twice) without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions. The results were shown in Table III-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst III-D, III-E and III-F were evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The catalysts III-D, III-E and III-F having been used were recovered, and were used for the following catalytic reactions (thus recycled twice) without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions. The results were shown in Table III-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst III-D, III-E and III-F were evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The catalysts III-D, III-E and III-F having been used were recovered, and were used for the following catalytic reactions (thus recycled twice) without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions. The results were shown in Table III-<NUM>.

<NUM> of propylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst III-A, III-B and III-C were evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the propylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The catalysts III-A, III-B and III-C having been used were recovered through centrifugation, and were respectively used for the next catalytic reaction (thus recycled twice) without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions. The results were shown in Table III-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed and the performance of active centers Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)PF<NUM> and Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)OTs used as homogeneous catalyst were evaluated under conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The results were shown in Table III-<NUM>.

<NUM> of ethylene oxide was weighed, and the performance of the catalyst III-G was evaluated under the conditions of a temperature of <NUM>, a pressure of <NUM> MPa, a water ratio of <NUM>: <NUM>, a molar ratio of the catalyst to the ethylene oxide of <NUM>:<NUM> and a reaction duration of <NUM>. The catalyst III-G having been used were recovered through centrifugation, and was used for the next catalytic reaction (thus recycled twice) without activation regeneration under the same catalytic conditions. The results were shown in Table III-<NUM>.

Claim 1:
A nanocage-confined catalyst, characterized in that the catalyst has an active center of formula (I-<NUM>) and/or (I-<NUM>):

        M(Salenl)X     (I-<NUM>)

        M' (Salen2)     (I-<NUM>)

such that the catalyst has formula (I):

        NC-m[M(Salen1)X]-n[M'(Salen2)]     (I)

wherein:
NC is a material having a nanocage structure, wherein the NC is mesoporous silica nanoparticles having a nanocage structure or organic hybrid mesoporous silica nanoparticles having a nanocage structure;
each occurrence of M is independently selected from the group consisting of Co ion, Fe ion, Ga ion, Al ion, Cr ion, and a mixture thereof; and each occurrence of M' is independently selected from Cu ion, Ni ion and a mixture thereof;
m is an integer of <NUM> to <NUM>, n is an integer of <NUM> to <NUM>; provided that at least one of m and n is not <NUM>;
each occurrence of Salen1 and Salen2 is independently a derivative of a Shiff base;
X is an axial anion, wherein each occurrence of X is independently selected from the group consisting of unsubstituted acetate, unsubstituted benzene sulfonate, p-toluenesulfonate, unsubstituted benzoate, F-, Cl-, Br-, I-, SbF<NUM>-, PF<NUM>-, BF<NUM>- and a mixture thereof; provided that:
(<NUM>) when X is an unsubstituted acetate, an unsubstituted benzenesulfonate, or an unsubstituted benzoate, then M is not a Co ion,
(<NUM>) when X is F-, Cl-, Br-, or I-, then m is not less than <NUM>, and at least one occurrence of X in formula (I-<NUM>) is SbF<NUM>-, and
(<NUM>) the nanocage-confined catalyst does not have the formula FDU-<NUM>-Co(N,N'-disalicylidene-<NUM>,<NUM>-cyclohexanediamine)SbF<NUM> wherein the active center is encapsulated by prehydrolyzed methyl orthosilicate