The oxidative properties of chromium-exchanged zeolite (CrE-ZSM-5) towards the oxidation of alcohols and benzylic methylene groups with t-butyl hydroperoxide have been evaluated. In most cases, high yields of ketones have been obtained. Experimental evidence is presented that these reactions were, at least in part, homogeneously catalyzed by leached chromium. (C) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.