Knoevenagel condensation in aqueous media promoted by 2,2′-bipyridinium dihydrogen phosphate as a green efficient catalyst

Microwave-assisted synthetic method of novel Bi2O3 nanostructure and its application as a high-performance nano-catalyst in preparing benzylidene barbituric acid derivatives

In this study, controllable and optimal microwave irradiation has been used to synthesize the novel nanostructures of Bi₂O₃ under environmental conditions. The final products had a thermal stability of 210°C, an average particle size distribution of 85 nm, and a surface area of 783 m²/g. The high thermodynamic stability of Bi₂O₃ nanostructures was confirmed by TG and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analyses. The nanostructure nature of compounds, and most importantly, the use of an effective, cost-effective, and rapid synthesis route of microwave have created significant physiochemical properties in the Bi₂O₃ products. These unexpected properties have made the possibility of potential application of these products in various fields, especially in nano-catalyst applications. It is well-documented that, as Lewis acid, bismuth nano-catalyst exhibits a great catalytic activity for the green synthesis of some bio-active barbituric acid derivatives using precursors with electron-donating or electron-withdrawing nature in high yields (80%–98%). After incorporating this catalyst into the aqueous media, all the reactions were completed within 2–3 min at room temperature. The main advantages of this method are practical facility, the availability of starting materials, and low costs besides the catalyst reusability. Additionally, the catalyst synthesis process may be carried out in the aqueous media for a short period with medium to high yields. The obtained results have opened a new window for the development of a novel nano-catalyst with practical application.