having formula ia wherein n and m both represent 1 x 1 and x 2 both represent 0 y 1 y 2 y 3 y 4 z 1 and z 2 all represent h the following complex is formed str21 complexes such as ii between a doubly positive metal ion and a di deprotonated ligand are particularly stable since they are neutral molecules such di deprotonated complexes are particularly suitable for catalyzing oxidation reactions of alkenes with oxidizing agents such as hypochlorite ion since such di deprotonated complexes are square planar square planar complexes are believed to be more effective oxidation catalysts than complexes having other geometries the compounds having formula ia and ib are useful in the sequestration of transition metal ions therefore these compounds may be used in the qualitative and quantitative assays of transition metal ions for example see kaden topics in current chemistry 121 157 180 1984 the complexes formed when compounds ia and ib sequester transition metal ions are further useful in biomimetic catalysis kinneary et al tetrahedron letters 29 877 1988 and in biomedical applications morphy et al j chem soc chem commun 156 1988 the transition metal complexes of the present invention are particularly useful in the oxidation of alkenes to epoxides with a variety of water soluble oxidizing agents under phase transfer conditions the oxidations may also utilize schiff base complexes such as a salen or a salophen salen complexes may be.