Boehmite nanoparticles as versatile support for organic–inorganic hybrid materials: Synthesis, functionalization, and applications in eco-friendly catalysis

Phosphotungstic Acid-Supported Hercynite: A Magnetic Nanocomposite Catalyst for the Selective Esterification of Chloroacetic Acid

This study presents the synthesis and characterization of a novel phosphotungstic acid-functionalized hercynite@SiO2 magnetic core-shell through a three-step procedure. The characterization involved various analyses including Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, P-XRD, TGA-DSC, EDAX, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy, elemental mapping, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and value stream mapping. The catalytic performance of the hercynite@SiO2-PTA nanomagnetic composite was examined in the esterification of chloroacetic acid. Results indicate that the developed procedure enables the production of chloroacetic acid esters using a wide range of primary, secondary, and tertiary aliphatic and aromatic alcohols with good to excellent yields and high selectivity. The significance of this work lies in its straightforward synthesis method, minimal time requirement, reduced utilization of hazardous chemicals, and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the catalyst exhibited magnetic recyclability for up to five cycles with negligible loss in activity. Notably, the synthesized catalyst demonstrated nontoxicity and environmental friendliness.

Photopolymerization Approach to Advanced Polymer Composites: Integration of Surface-Modified Nanofillers for Enhanced Properties

The incorporation of functionalized nanofillers into polymers via photopolymerization approach has gained significant attention in recent years due to the unique properties of the resulting composite materials. Surface modification of nanofillers plays a crucial role in their compatibility and polymerization behavior within the polymer matrix during photopolymerization. This review focuses on the recent developments in surface modification of various nanofillers, enabling their integration into polymer systems through photopolymerization. The review discusses the key aspects of surface modification of nanofillers, including the selection of suitable surface modifiers, such as photoinitiators and polymerizable groups, as well as the optimization of modification conditions to achieve desired surface properties. The influence of surface modification on the interfacial interactions between nanofillers and the polymer matrix is also explored, as it directly impacts the final properties of the nanocomposites. Furthermore, the review highlights the applications of nanocomposites prepared by photopolymerization, such as sensors, gas separation membranes, purification systems, optical devices, and biomedical materials. By providing a comprehensive overview of the surface modification strategies and their impact on the photopolymerization process and the resulting nanocomposite properties, this review aims to inspire new research directions and innovative ideas in the development of high-performance polymer nanocomposites for diverse applications.

Construction of a Dual-Functionalized Acid-Base Nanocatalyst via HEPES Buffer Functionalized on Fe3O4 as a Reusable Catalyst for Annulation Reactions

Herein, we present a highly efficient dual-functionalized acid-base nanocatalyst, denoted as Fe3O4@GLYMO-HEPES, featuring sulfuric acid and tertiary amines as its dual functional components. This catalyst is synthesized through the immobilization of 4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazineethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) as the source of these functionalities onto magnetite (Fe3O4) using 3-glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane (GLYMO) as a linker. Characterization studies confirm the integrity of the Fe3O4 core, with the GLYMO-HEPES coating exhibiting no phase changes. Furthermore, Fe3O4@GLYMO-HEPES nanoparticles demonstrate a uniform size distribution without aggregation. Notably, the catalyst exhibits remarkable stability up to 200 °C and possesses a saturation magnetization value of 31.5 emu/g, facilitating easy recovery via magnetic separation. These findings underscore the potential of Fe3O4@GLYMO-HEPES as a versatile and recyclable nanocatalyst for various applications. Its catalytic ability was evaluated in the synthesis of various pyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles and 2-amino-3-cyano-4H-chromenes through a tandem Knorr-Knoevenagel-Michael-Thorpe-Ziegler-type heterocyclization mechanism, using different aldehydes. A wide range of fused heterocycles was synthesized having good to excellent yields. The process is cost-effective, safe, sustainable, and scalable, and the catalyst can be reused up to five times. The prepared catalyst was found to be highly stable and heterogeneous and showed good recyclability.

Synthesis of 3,4-dihydropyrimidines and octahydroquinazolinones by SBA-15 supported schiff-base iron (III) complex as durable and reusable catalyst under ultrasound irradiation

Biginelli-type heterocyclic compounds are particularly important due to their several chemical reactivities and various range of pharmacological activity. Therefore Biginelli reaction has witnessed several modification and numerous investigations are continuing in this field to develop more effective and efficient methodologies. In this research, Iron (III) schiff base immobilized SBA-15 has been prepared as a valuable, efficient, and recoverable catalyst for the Biginelli reaction. The morphology of the prepared catalyst was identified by spectroscopic characterization techniques and structural microscopic analysis including Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) patterns, X-ray diffraction (XRD) by powder crystal method, Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) study, Thermogravimetric-Differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images. Biginelli compounds containing 3,4-dihydropyrimidines and octahydroquinazolinones were conveniently synthesized by this catalyzed protocol from the cycloaddition of aromatic aldehydes with the 1,3-dicarbonyl substrates and urea via ultrasonic waves. The several advantages of the presented approach are high yields and easy isolation of products, shorter reaction times, and milder conditions, structural stability and reusable catalyst. The combination of heterogeneous catalyst and ultrasonic radiation can make catalytic reactions more efficient than traditional ways attractive for academic researchers and application scholars in the industry.

Advances in morphology-controlled alumina and its supported Pd catalysts: synthesis and applications

Alumina materials, as one of the cornerstones of the modern chemical industry, possess physical and chemical properties that include excellent mechanical strength and structure stability, which also make them highly suitable as catalyst supports. Alumina-supported Pd-based catalysts with the advantages of exceptional catalytic performance, flexible regulated surface metal/acid sites, and good regeneration ability have been widely used in many traditional chemical industry fields and have also shown great application prospects in emerging fields. This review aims to provide an overview of the recent advances in alumina and its supported Pd-based catalysts. Specifically, the synthesis strategies, morphology transformation mechanisms, and structural properties of alumina with various morphologies are comprehensively summarized and discussed in-depth. Then, the preparation approaches of Pd/Al2O3 catalysts (impregnation, precipitation, and other emerging methods), as well as the metal-support interactions (MSIs), are revisited. Moreover, Some promising applications have been chosen as representative reactions in fine chemicals, environmental purification, and sustainable development fields to highlight the universal functionality of the alumina-supported Pd-based catalysts. The role of the Pd species, alumina support, promoters, and metal-support interactions in the enhancement of catalytic performance are also discussed. Finally, some challenges and upcoming opportunities in the academic and industrial application of the alumina and its supported Pd-based are presented and put forward.

An immobilized Schiff base-Mn complex as a hybrid magnetic nanocatalyst for green synthesis of biologically active [4,3-d]pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-6-ones

The immobilization of metal ions on inorganic supports has garnered significant attention due to its wide range of applications. These immobilized metal ions serve as catalysts for chemical reactions and as probes for studying biological processes. In this study, we successfully prepared Fe3O4@SiO2@Mn-complex by immobilizing manganese onto the surface of magnetic Fe3O4@SiO2 nanoparticles through a layer-by-layer assembly technique. The structure of these hybrid nanoparticles was characterized by various analytical techniques, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Fe3O4@SiO2@Mn-complex was successfully utilized in the synthesis of biologically active 7-aryl[4,3-d]pyrido[1,2-a]pyrimidin-6(7H)-one derivatives in an aqueous medium, providing environmentally friendly conditions. The desired products were manufactured in high yields (81-95%) without the formation of side products. The heterogeneity of the solid nanocatalyst was assessed using a hot filtration test that confirmed minimal manganese leaching during the reaction. This procedure offers numerous advantages, including short reaction times, the use of a green solvent, the ability to reuse the catalyst without a significant decrease in catalytic activity, and easy separation of the catalyst using an external magnet. Furthermore, this approach aligns with environmental compatibility and sustainability standards.

Sustainable carbonaceous nanomaterial supported palladium as an efficient ligand-free heterogeneouscatalyst for Suzuki-Miyaura coupling

A novel ligand-free heterogeneous catalyst was synthesized via pyrolysis of Samanea saman pods to produce carbon nanospheres (SS-CNSs), which served as a carbon support for immobilizing palladium nanoparticles through an in situ reduction technique (Pd/SS-CNS). The SS-CNSs effectively integrated 3% of Pd on their surfaces with no additional activation procedures needed. The nanomaterials obtained underwent thorough characterization employing various techniques such as FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, TEM, EDS, ICP-AES, and BET. Subsequently, the efficiency of this Pd/SS-CNS catalyst was assessed for the synthesis of biaryl derivatives via Suzuki coupling, wherein different boronic acids were coupled with various aryl halides using an environmentally benign solvent mixture of EtOH/H2O and employing only 0.1 mol% of Pd/SS-CNS. The catalytic system was conveniently recovered through centrifugation and demonstrated reusability without any noticeable decline in catalytic activity. This approach offers economic viability, ecological compatibility, scalability, and has the potential to serve as an alternative to homogeneous catalysis.

Triethyl amine as an effective reducing agent for sulfoxide deoxygenation

Enabled by triethyl amine (Et3N) and thionyl chloride (SOCl2), an efficient and practical protocol for deoxygenation of sulfoxide to sulfide was developed. This new method features a wide range of substrate scope, including diaryl, dialkyl and aryl alkyl substituted sulfoxides. Detailed mechanistic investigations reveal the crucial role played by Et3N as an electron-donating reductant rather than a hydrogen-atom donor.

Preparation of nanodiamond anchored on copper tannic acid as a heterogenous catalyst for synthesis of 1,4-benzodiazepines derivatives

In this research, a new and eco-friendly heterogeneous catalyst (ND@Tannicacid-Cu) was synthesized based on nanodiamond and copper tannic acid via esterification process. The as-prepared catalyst was characterized by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods. The catalytic efficacy of the intended catalyst was examined by one-step three-component reaction of 1,4-benzodiazepine derivatives from a mixture of ortho-phenylenediamine, aromatic aldehydes, and dimedone under mild conditions. In all instances, corresponding 2,4-benzodiazepines derivatives were synthesized with high efficiency, short reaction time, straightforward work up procedure, no requirement for column-chromatography, and cost-effective catalyst. The heterogeneous catalyst was easily recycled using fillers, and it can be reused for eight cycles without significantly diminishing its performance.

Fe3O4@SiO2@CSH+VO3- as a novel recyclable heterogeneous catalyst with core-shell structure for oxidation of sulfides

Iron nanoparticles, with low toxicity and many active sites, are among the materials that not only reduce waste along with green chemistry but also increase the separation power and recover the catalyst from the reaction environment. In this study, first, the surface of iron nanoparticles was silanized, and in the next step, the complex of chitosan HCl.VO3 was placed on the surface of Fe3O4 (Fe3O4@SiO2@CSH+VO3-). This nanocatalyst is a novel, recoverable, and potent nanocatalyst with high selectivity for the oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides. Various physicochemical techniques such as IR, XRD, TGA, SEM, EDX, mapping, TEM, and VSM were used to affirm the well synthesis of the catalyst. Oxidation of sulfides in the presence of hydrogen peroxide as a green oxidant and in ethanol was catalyzed by the Fe3O4@SiO2@CSH+VO3-. All sulfoxides were achieved with high efficiency and in a short time. The notable privileges of this method include facile and economic catalyst synthesis, proper catalyst durability, great performance, simple catalyst isolation, good recovery capability, at least up to 5 times without an index drop in catalytic power.

Copper (II) complex supported on magnetic nanoparticles as a novel nanocatalyst for the synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines

Research on the synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridines has gained great importance among synthetic chemists because there have been numerous reports of their biological and medicinal activities. In this respect, we fabricated CuCl2 immobilized on Fe3O4 nanoparticles modified with 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-diol [Fe3O4@Diol/Phen-CuCl2] and investigated its catalytic activity for the preparation of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine derivatives through one-pot three-component reaction of 2-aminopyridines, aldehydes and terminal alkynes under ecofriendly conditions. FT-IR spectroscopy, EDX, SEM, TEM, XRD, TGA, VSM and ICP-OES techniques employed in order to identify the structure of the as-constructed Fe3O4@Diol/Phen-CuCl2 nanocatalyst. This catalytic system has a series of advantages such as the synthesis of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine products with high yields in suitable time, performing the reactions in an environmentally friendly solvent (PEG), easy preparation of the catalyst with a simple method, and the recyclability of the Fe3O4@Diol/Phen-CuCl2 nanocatalyst.

Schiff Base Complex of Copper Immobilized on Core-Shell Magnetic Nanoparticles Catalyzed One-Pot Syntheses of Polyhydroquinoline Derivatives under Mild Conditions Supported by a DFT Study

We synthesized a stable and reusable Schiff base complex of copper immobilized on core-shell magnetic nanoparticles [Cu(II)-SB/GPTMS@SiO2@Fe3O4] with simple, efficient, and available materials. A variety of characterization analyses including Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating-sample magnetometry (VSM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) confirm that our synthesized nanocatalyst was obtained. The particle size distribution from the TEM image was obtained in the range of 42-55 nm. The existence of cupric species (Cu2+) in the catalyst was determined with XPS analysis and clearly indicated two peaks at 933.7 and 953.7 eV for Cu 2p3/2 and Cu 2p1/2, respectively. BET results showed that our catalyst synthesized with a mesoporous structure and with a specific area of 48.82 m2 g-1. After detailed characterization, the resulting nanocatalyst exhibited excellent catalytic performance for the explored catalytic reactions in the one-pot synthesis of polyhydroquinoline derivatives by the Hantzsch reaction of dimedone, ethyl acetoacetate, ammonium acetate, and various aldehydes under sustainable and mild conditions. The corresponding products 5a-l are achieved in yields of 88-97%. Additionally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to investigate the electrostatic potential root (ESP), natural bond orbital (NBO), and molecular orbitals (MOs), drawing the reaction mechanism using the total energy of the reactant and product and the study of structural parameters.

Construction and characterization of a magnetic nanoparticle-supported Cu complex: a stable and active nanocatalyst for synthesis of heteroaryl-aryl and di-heteroaryl sulfides

Diaryl and di-heteroaryl sulfides exist in the structure of many drugs and important biological compounds, also these compounds are well-known in medicinal chemistry due to important biological and pharmaceutical activities. Therefore, the development of novel, ecofriendly and efficient catalytic systems for the preparation of diaryl and di-heteroaryl sulfides is a very attractive and important challenge in organic synthesis. In this attractive methodology, we wish to introduce Fe3O4-supported 3-amino-4-mercaptobenzoic acid copper complex (Fe3O4@AMBA-CuI) nanomaterials as a novel and efficient magnetically recoverable catalyst for the preparation of heteroaryl-aryl and di-heteroaryl sulfides with high yields through reaction of heteroaryl halides with aryl or heteroaryl boronic acids and S8 as the sulfur source under ecofriendly conditions. This catalytic system was very efficient and practical for a diverse range of heteroaryl substrates including benzothiazole, benzoxazole, benzimidazole, oxadiazole, benzofuran, and imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine, because the desired diaryl and di-heteroaryl sulfides were prepared with high yields. The reusability-experiments revealed that the Fe3O4@AMBA-CuI nanocatalyst can be magnetically separated and reused at least six times without a significant decrease in its catalytic activity. VSM and ICP-OES analyses confirmed that despite using the Fe3O4@AMBA-CuI nanocatalyst 6 times, the magnetic properties and stability of the catalyst were still maintained. Although all the obtained heteroaryl-aryl and di-heteroaryl sulfide products are known and previously reported, the synthesis of this number of heteroaryl-aryl and di-heteroaryl sulfides has never been reported by any previouse methods.

Green synthesis of quinazoline derivatives using a novel recyclable nano-catalyst of magnetic modified graphene oxide supported with copper

A new magnetic nano-catalyst system based on graphene oxide was designed and manufactured (GO@Fe3O4@3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane@(Z)-N'-(2-hydroxybenzylidene)-4-(pyridin-4-yl)benzohydrazide@Cu(II)), and it was checked and confirmed by various analyzes such as FTIR, XRD, EDX, MAPPING, TGA/DSC, VSM and FESEM. This nano-catalyst was used in the three-component one-pot synthesis of quinazoline derivatives. The products were obtained using this efficient catalyst with high efficiency in short time and solvent-free conditions. Easy separation and acceptable recyclability are other advantages of this new nano-catalyst. Also, the catalyst can be recycled 4 times without a significant change in its efficiency.

Nanomagnetic tetraaza (N4 donor) macrocyclic Schiff base complex of copper(ii): synthesis, characterizations, and its catalytic application in Click reactions

In this research, a novel nanomagnetic tetra-azamacrocyclic Schiff base complex of copper(ii) was produced via a post-synthetic surface modification of an Fe3O4 surface by a silane-coupling agent that contains acetylacetone functionalities at the end of its chain. Moreover, the target Cu complex that involves a tetradentate Schiff base ligand was obtained from a template reaction with o-phenylenediamine and Cu(NO3)2·3H2O. Furthermore, the prepared complex was nominated as [Fe3O4@TAM-Schiff-base-Cu(II)]. The Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis indicates the presence of a Schiff-base-Cu complex in the catalyst. X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and TGA analysis reveal that approximately 6-7% of the target catalyst comprises hydrocarbon moieties. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images demonstrate the presence of uniformly shaped particles, nearly spherical in nature, with sizes ranging from 9 to 18 nm. [Fe3O4@TAM-Schiff-base-Cu(II)] was applied as a catalyst for the click synthesis of a diverse range of 5-substituted-1H-tetrazoles in PEG-400 as a green medium. Regarding the electrical properties of the Cu(ii) complex, the presence of a tetra-aza (N4 donor) macrocyclic Schiff base as an N-rich ligand was reasonable - leading to its excellent capacity to catalyze these organic transformations. Finally, the high magnetization value (44.92 emu g-1) of [Fe3O4@TAM-Schiff-base-Cu(II)] enables its recycling at least four times without compromising the catalytic efficiency.

Efficient synthesis of 3-alkyl-2-(-1H-1,2,3-triazolyl)methyl)thio)-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one derivative via multistep synthesis approach by novel Cu@Py-Oxa@SPION catalyst

In this pared, an efficient method is introduced for the synthesis of 3-alkyl-2-(((4-(2-oxopropyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)alkyl)thio)-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one derivatives. These novel products have both 1,2,3-triazole and quinazolinone in their structures. For the synthesis of these products, a novel catalyst is designed, synthesized, and characterized by the immobilization of copper onto modified magnetic iron oxide. The catalyst (denoted: Cu@Py-Oxa@SPION) was characterized by several characterization techniques. In this regard, 16 3-alkyl-2-(((4-(2-oxopropyl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl)alkyl)thio)-2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one derivatives were synthesized in high isolated yields (77-86%). As an advantage, the catalyst is highly recoverable and its activity has not decreased after 7 sequential runs. The method is very efficient for the synthesis of the products in high isolated yields under mild reaction conditions in a green solvent. The scope of the method is broad and several examples were successfully synthesized using starting materials with different functional groups.

Efficient and biocompatible new palladium-supported boehmite nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization and application in Suzuki-Miura and Mizoroki-Heck coupling reactions

Palladium complex-supported on boehmite (Pd(0)-SMTU-boehmite) nanoparticles were synthesized and characterized by using XRD, SEM, EDS, TGA, BET, ICP and FT-IR techniques. When applied as a new catalyst for C-C coupling reactions of Suzuki-Miyaura and Mizoroki-Heck in PEG-400 solvent, the Pd(0)-SMTU-boehmite nanoparticles showed excellent activity and recyclability. The study of palladium leaching by the ICP-OES technique and hot filtration led to the catalyst exhibiting excellent stability and recyclability.

Composite Membrane Based on Melamine Sponge and Boehmite Manufactured by Simple and Economical Dip-Coating Method for Fluoride Ion Removal

The wastewater generated from the semiconductor production process contains a wide range and a large number of harmful substances at high concentrations. Excessive exposure to fluoride can lead to life-threatening effects such as skin necrosis and respiratory damage. Accordingly, a guideline value of fluoride ions in drinking water was 1.5 mg L^-1 recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) has the characteristics of excellent chemical and thermal stability. Boehmite (AlOOH) is a mineral and has been widely used as an adsorbent due to its high surface area and strong adsorption capacity for fluoride ions. It can be densely coated on negatively charged surfaces through electrostatic interaction due to its positively charged surface. In this study, a composite membrane was fabricated by a simple and economical dip coating of a commercial melamine sponge (MS) with PVDF and boehmite to remove fluoride ions from semiconductor wastewater. The prepared MS-PVDF-Boehmite composite membrane showed a high removal efficiency for fluoride ions in both incubation and filtration. By the incubation process, the removal efficiency of fluoride ions was 55% within 10 min and reached 80% after 24 h. In the case of filtration, the removal efficiency was 95.5% by 4 cycles of filtering with a flow rate of 70 mL h^-1. In addition, the removal mechanism of fluoride ions on MS-PVDF-Boehmite was also explored by using Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms and kinetic analysis. (R2-1) From the physical, chemical, thermal, morphological, and mechanical analyses of present materials, this study provides an MS-PVDF-Boehmite composite filter material that is suitable for fluoride removal applications due to its simple fabrication process, cost-effectiveness, and high performance.

Fe3O4@BNPs@ZnO-ZnS as a novel, reusable and efficient photocatalyst for dye removal from synthetic and textile wastewaters

In this study, new magnetic nanocomposites with different molar ratios of zinc oxide-zinc sulfide were synthesized together with photocatalysts MNPs@BNPs@ZnO and MNPs@ BNPs@ ZnS. The photocatalytic behavior of these hybrid nanocomposites under visible light and ultraviolet light was investigated to remove methylene blue (MB), methyl orange (MO) dyes, real textile and carton effluents. After studies, the best active photocatalyst in both visible light and ultraviolet light is MNPs@BNPs@ZnO-ZnS (ZnO/ZnS: 0.75:0.25), which displayed the best performance in the ultraviolet region. According to the TEM, the average particle size for MNPs@BNPs@ZnO-ZnS (ZnO/ZnS: 0.75:0.25) is between 10 and 30 nm. Zeta potential (DLS) showed that the charge on the photocatalyst surface is negative at most pHs. PL analysis confirmed that the amount of hole-electron recombination in the optimal photocatalyst is less than MNPs@BNPs@ZnO and MNPs@BNPs@ZnS. Also, based on kinetic studies, the rate constant for removing azo dyes such as MO and MB was 0.0186 and 0.0171 min^-1, respectively. It is worth noting that in addition to the novelty of the synthesized photocatalysts, the UV and visible lamps used in this research are inexpensive, durable, and highly efficient.

A new samarium complex of 1,3-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)thiourea on boehmite nanoparticles as a practical and recyclable nanocatalyst for the selective synthesis of tetrazoles

Boehmite is a natural and environmentally friendly compound. Herein boehmite nanoparticles were primarily synthesized and, then, their surface were modified via 3-choloropropyltrimtoxysilane (CPTMS). Afterwards, a new samarium complex was stabilized on the surface of the modified boehmite nanoparticles (Sm-bis(PYT)@boehmite). The obtained nanoparticles were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), wavelength dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (WDX), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. Sm-bis(PYT)@boehmite was used as an environmentally friendly, efficient, and organic-inorganic hybrid nanocatalyst in the homoselective synthesis of tetrazoles in polyethylene glycol 400 (PEG-400) as a green solvent. Notably, Sm-bis(PYT)@boehmite is stable and has a heterogeneous nature. Thus, it can be reused for several runs without any re-activation.

Synthesis of tetrazoles catalyzed by a new and recoverable nanocatalyst of cobalt on modified boehmite NPs with 1,3-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)thiourea

In the first part of this work, boehmite nanoparticles (BNPs) were synthesized from aqueous solutions of NaOH and Al(NO₃)₃·9H₂O. Then, the BNPs surface was modified using 3-choloropropyltrimtoxysilane (CPTMS) and then 1,3-bis(pyridin-3-ylmethyl)thiourea ((PYT)₂) was anchored on the surface of the modified BNPs (CPTMS@BNPs). In the final step, a complex of cobalt was stabilized on its surface (Co-(PYT)₂@BNPs). The final obtained nanoparticles were characterized by FT-IR spectra, TGA analysis, SEM imaging, WDX analysis, EDS analysis, and XRD patterns. In the second part, Co-(PYT)₂@BNPs were used as a highly efficient, retrievable, stable, and organic-inorganic hybrid nanocatalyst for the formation of organic heterocyclic compounds such as tetrazole derivatives. Co-(PYT)₂@BNPs as a novel nanocatalyst are stable and have a heterogeneous nature; therefore, they can be recovered and reused again for several consecutive runs without any re-activation.

Zn Complex on Tryptophan-Functionalized MCM-41 as an Efficient and Promising Reusable Nanocatalyst in One-Pot Three-Component Synthesis of Amino Benzyl Quinolinols and Naphthols via a Betti Reaction

In this research, a Zn transition metallic complex on functionalized mesopore silica MCM-41 has been designed and utilized as an effective, recoverable, and thermally stable heterogeneous nanocatalyst in the formation of the C-C bond. Also, the synthesis of amino benzyl quinolinols and amino benzyl naphthol derivatives was performed by the three-component reaction of Betti from aromatic aldehydes, type II amines, and 8-hydroxyquinoline and 1-naphthol in the presence of the MCM-41-tryptophan-Zn nanocatalyst under reflux conditions. The short reaction times, high efficiency of the products, the easy separation of catalysts due to their heterogeneity, and their reusability are the advantages of this method. Finally, the nature of catalysts was studied by using some techniques such as the Fourier transform infrared spectrum, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, hot filtration test, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, and N₂ adsorption-desorption (BET). The synthesized heterogeneous catalysts showed perfect catalytic activity and also good recyclability in the Betti reaction. They could be reused at least for five consecutive cycles without significant loss of their catalytic activities.

A novel ZnS-CdS nanocomposite as a visible active photocatalyst for degradation of synthetic and real wastewaters

In this study, new magnetic nanocomposites with shell core structure with different molar ratios of ZnS-CdS were synthesized and their photocatalytic activity in dye removal from synthetic and real effluents in the presence of mercury high pressure lamp as a visible light source was investigated. Optimal photocatalyst with molar ratio of ZnS-CdS 0.25:0.75 showed the best performance in dye removal. Based on the particle distribution histogram of Fe₃O₄@BNPs@ZnS-CdS (ZnS/CdS: 0.25:0.75), particles with 60-100 nm have the highest abundance. According to the DRS results, hybridization of zinc sulfide with cadmium sulfide reduced the gap and as a result, light absorption was successfully extended to the visible area. The PL results confirm that the optimal photocatalyst (Fe₃O₄@BNPs@ZnS-CdS) has the lowest electron-hole recombination compared to Fe₃O₄@BNPs@ZnS and Fe₃O₄@BNPs@CdS. It should be noted that according to the DLS results, the charge on the optical photocomposite surface is negative at all acidic, alkaline and neutral pHs. One of the significant advantages in this study is the use of high-pressure mercury lamps as a light source, so that these lamps are very economical in terms of economy and also have a long life and excellent efficiency. The optimal photocatalyst not only showed excellent photocatalytic activity for the removal of methylene blue (96.6%) and methyl orange (70.9%) but also for the dye removal of textile effluents (Benton 98.5% and dark olive 100%). Introduced magnetic heterostructures are suitable options for dye removal from textile and spinning wastewaters.

Transformation of used aluminium foil food container into AlOOH nanoflakes with high catalytic activity in anionic azo dye reduction

Synthesis of aluminium-based nanomaterials from aluminium-waste has received huge attention in current scientific research. Herein, an attempt was made to convert aluminium foil food container into aluminium oxyhydroxide (AlOOH) nanoparticles by a precipitation method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), spectroscopic and electron microscopic studies were employed to characterize impure AlOOH (containing sodium chloride, NaCl) and pure AlOOH samples. The band gap (E_g) of AlOOH nanoparticles was found to be 4.5 eV. The catalytic potential of AlOOH samples was evaluated using reduction of methyl orange (MO) and Eriochrome black T (EBT) dyes. Impure AlOOH nanoparticles could reduce 99.8% of MO and EBT dye within 4 min and 3 min respectively. Effect of the AlOOH dosage and NaBH₄ concentration on catalytic reduction was determined. Used aluminium foil food container-derived AlOOH nanoparticles will become a low-cost and sustainable catalyst in the catalytic treatment of azo dye contaminated waters.

Palladium immobilized on guanidine functionalized magnetic nanoparticles: a highly effective and recoverable catalyst for ultrasound aided Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions

The Fe3O4@SiO2-TCT-Gua-Pd catalyst anchored with guanidine moiety on Fe3O4 nanoparticles was synthesised for Suzuki–Miyaura cross coupling reaction.

Organic-inorganic interface chemistry for sustainable materials

This mini-review focuses on up-to-date advances of hybrid materials consisting of organic and inorganic components and their applications in different chemical processes. The purpose of forming such hybrids is mainly to functionalize and stabilize inorganic supports by attaching an organic linker to enhance their performance towards a target application. The interface chemistry is present with the emphasis on the sustainability of their components, chemical changes in substrates during synthesis, improvements of their physical and chemical properties, and, finally, their implementation. The latter is the main sectioning feature of this review, while we present the most prosperous applications ranging from catalysis, through water purification and energy storage. Emphasis was given to materials that can be classified as green to the best in our consideration. As the summary, the current situation on developing hybrid materials as well as directions towards sustainable future using organic-inorganic hybrids are presented.

Phosphomolybdic acid hydrate encapsulated in MIL-53 (Fe): a novel heterogeneous heteropoly acid catalyst for ultrasound-assisted regioselective nitration of phenols

In this study, a heterogeneous catalyst, PMA@MIL-53 (Fe) (MIL ⇒ Matériaux de l'Institut Lavoisier), has been used to replace the usual mineral acids such as sulfuric acid. A wide variety of nitration methods require the use of a mixture of acids such as concentrated nitric acid and sulfuric acid, which result in producing a large amount of acidic waste. During recent years, the use of the heterogeneous system for the nitration of aromatic compounds has been highly considered and used by chemists due to some specific advantages, i.e. easy separation of the product from the reaction mixture, the possibility of recycling and reusing the catalyst, etc. Herein, the catalyst was synthesized using a metal-organic framework and a heteropoly phosphomolybdic acid. The PMA@MIL-53 (Fe) was prepared using a similar method of MIL-53 (Fe) synthesis. Afterwards, FeCl3·6H2O and 1,4-benzene dicarboxylic acid (BDC) in a dimethylformamide solution were placed in an ultrasound bath and, then, HPA (heteropoly acid) was added to the reaction mixture. The PMA (phosphomolybdic acid) encapsulation in MIL-53 (Fe) was confirmed using various analysis. Under optimal conditions, the catalytic activity of PMA@MIL-53 (Fe) was evaluated in nitration of phenol under ultrasonic waves. Besides, the ratio of the two products of ortho and para was obtained using GC. Optimum conditions were reached after 15 minutes, in such a way that the loaded PMA was 0.02 g under optimal conditions, the efficiencies of ortho-nitrophenol and para nitrophenol were 54.98 and 45.01, respectively.

Recent progress in semiconductor/graphene photocatalysts: synthesis, photocatalytic applications, and challenges

The presence of an increasing number of organic pollutants in water now poses serious risks to both human health and ecological systems. Many of these pollutants are persistent and non-biodegradable. The contamination of fresh water by harmful substances has compelled researchers to develop innovative, efficient, and cost-effective water remediation techniques and materials. Thus, photocatalysis has long been recognized as a promising approach to tackle both environmental remediation and the energy crisis. However, semiconductor photocatalysts frequently suffer from defects such as photo-generated charge carrier recombination, poor visible light response, and slow surface reaction kinetics, which can be remedied by modifications with appropriate co-catalysts. Therefore, graphene and its derivatives have widely been used as supports for semiconductors and photocatalysts due to their distinctive optical, physicochemical, and electrical features. This critical review addresses the current progress in the design and synthesis of graphene/semiconductor photocatalysts, as well as their use in photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants and hydrogen production. Several influencing parameters are addressed, including pH, photocatalyst loading, initial pollutant concentration, light wavelength, and oxidizing species, all of which could have a significant impact on the rate of organic pollutant's degradation. Furthermore, the recyclability of the catalyst and its photocatalytic activity mechanisms are thoroughly discussed. Numerous case studies are systematically presented. Moreover, future prospects and major challenges are highlighted.

SiO2-supported HClO4 catalyzed synthesis of (Z)-thiazolylhydrazonoindolin-2-ones and their electrochemical properties

In this paper, an environmentally benign silica-supported perchloric acid (HClO₄-SiO₂) catalyzed green FCDR strategy has been developed for the synthesis of (Z)-THIs (6) with high stereospecificity via an intramolecular hydrogen bond (IHB) directed approach, involving the reaction of methyl ketones (1), N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) (2), isatins (4) and thiosemicarbazide (5) in ethanol at reflux temperature for 45-60 min in one-pot. The reaction proceeds through the construction of C-Br (α-bromination), C-S & C-N (heterocyclization), and CN (condensation) bonds in one pot. The absolute structure of the compound (Z)-3-(2-(4-(4-bromophenyl)thiazol-2-yl)hydrazono)indolin-2-one (6e) has been confirmed by single-crystal XRD analysis. Further, the role of IHB on Z-configuration of the synthesized (Z)-THIs is proved by single-crystal XRD and ¹H NMR studies. Wide substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, scalability, improved safety since the method circumvents the use of highly lachrymatric α-bromoketones as starting materials, high product yields (up to 98%), short reaction times, reusable solid Brønsted acid catalyst (HClO₄-SiO₂), and products that do not require column chromatography purification are all attractive features of this FCDR strategy. Electrochemical properties of THIs (6) are examined by cyclic voltammetry. The HOMO and LUMO energy level of THIs, 6a, 6c, 6d, 6j, 6o-6v, 6y, and 6aa are comparable with the reported ambipolar materials, and the HOMO levels of other THIs, 6b, 6e-6i, 6n, 6w, 6x, 6z and 6 ab-6ae are similar with the most commonly used hole transporting materials (HTMs).

Ni(ii) immobilized on poly(guanidine-triazine-sulfonamide) (PGTSA/Ni): a mesoporous nanocatalyst for synthesis of imines

Mesoporous materials have been the subject of intense research regarding their unique structural and textural properties and successful applications in various fields. This study reports a novel approach for synthesizing a novel porous polymer stabilizer through condensation polymerization in which Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles (Fe₃O₄ MNPs) are used as hard templates. Using this method allowed the facile and fast removal of the template and mesopores formation following the Fe₃O₄ MNPs. Different techniques were performed to characterize the structure of the polymer. Based on the obtained results, the obtained mesoporous polymeric network was multi-layered and consisted of repeating units of sulfonamide, triazine, and guanidine as a novel heterogeneous multifunctional support. Afterward, the new nickel organometallic complex was supported on its inner surface using the porous poly sulfonamide triazine guanidine (PGTSA/Ni). In this process, the obtained PGTSA/Ni nanocomposite was used as a heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of imines from amines. Since this reaction has an acceptorless dehydrogenation pathway, the hydrogen gas is released as its by-product. The synthesized nanocatalyst was structurally confirmed using different characterization modalities, including FT-IR, SEM, XRD, EDX, TEM, elemental mapping, ICP-AES, BET, and TGA. In addition, all products were obtained in high turnover frequency (TOF) and turnover number (TON). The corresponding results revealed the high selectivity and activity of the prepared catalyst through these coupling reactions. Overall, the synthesized nanocatalyst is useable for eight cycles with no considerable catalytic efficiency loss.

Gold nanoparticle decorated dithiocarbamate modified natural boehmite as a catalyst for the synthesis of biologically essential propargylamines

Here, we prepare an Au NP decorated dithiocarbamate functionalized boehmite (γ-AlO(OH)@C-NHCS2H·AuNPs). This stepwise synthetic method gives an efficient, cost-effective, and green heterogenous Au-based nanocatalyst for the A3-coupling preparation of the biologically essential propargylamines. Different characterization methods, including FT-IR, XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX spectra, and elemental SEM-mapping, were employed to investigate the structure of the manufactured γ-AlO(OH)@C-NHCS2H·AuNPs. Then we used the prepared composite as a heterogeneous gold-based nanocatalyst for the one-pot A3-coupling preparation of propargyl amines by reacting a variety of aldehydes, amines, and phenylacetylene which exhibited promising results.

Design and characterization of an urea-bridged PMO supporting Cu(II) nanoparticles as highly efficient heterogeneous catalyst for synthesis of tetrazole derivatives

In this work, a new periodic mesoporous organosilica with urea-bridges produced by the reaction of (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane and toluene-2,4-diisocyanate (APS-TDU-PMO) is introduced. The obtained APS-TDU-PMO was found to be an appropriate support for loading of Cu(II) nanoparticles to afford supramolecular Cu@APS-TDU-PMO nanocomposite. Uniformity and mesoporosity of both synthesized nanomaterials including APS-TDU-PMO and Cu@APS-TDU-PMO were proved by different spectroscopic, microscopic or analytical techniques including FTIR, EDX, XRD, FESEM, TEM, BET, TGA and DTA. Furthermore, the prepared Cu@APS-TDU-PMO nanomaterial was also used, as a heterogeneous and recyclable catalyst, for the synthesis of tetrazole derivatives through cascade condensation, concerted cycloaddition and tautomerization reactions. Indeed, the main advantages of this Cu@APS-TDU-PMO is its simple preparation and high catalytic activity as well as proper surface area which enable it to work under solvent-free conditions. Also, the introduced Cu@APS-TDU-PMO heterogeneous catalyst showed good stability and reusability for six consecutive runs to address more green chemistry principles.

Heteroployacid on the composite of boehmite and polyionic liquid as a catalyst for alcohol oxidation and tandem alcohol oxidation Knoevenagel condensation reactions

Using boehmite as an available and low-cost natural compound, a bi-functional catalytic composite is prepared through vinyl-functionalization of boehmite, followed by polymerization with the as-prepared bis-vinylimidazolium bromide ionic liquid and supporting of phosphotungstic acid. The catalyst was characterized via ICP, XRD, TGA, FTIR, SEM/EDS and elemental mapping analysis and applied for promoting alcohol oxidation reaction and one-pot tandem alcohol oxidation/Knoevenagel condensation reaction in aqueous media under mild reaction condition. The results indicated high catalytic activity of the catalyst for both reactions. This protocol showed high generality and aliphatic, aromatic and heterocyclic alcohols could be applied as substrates to furnish the corresponding products in high to excellent yields. Furthermore, hot filtration test confirmed true heterogeneous nature of the catalysis. The catalyst could also be recovered readily and reused for at least five runs of the reaction with low loss of the activity and phosphotungstic acid leaching upon each run.

Pd on cyclotriphosphazen-hexa imine decorated boehmite as an efficient catalyst for hydrogenation of nitro arenes under mild reaction condition

Cyclotriphosphazen-hexa imine ligand was prepared through successive reactions of phosphonitrilchloride trimer with 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde and (3-aminopropyl) triethoxy silane. The as-prepared ligand was then covalently grafted on boehmite to furnish an efficient support for the immobilization of Pd nanoparticles and synthesis of a novel heterogeneous catalyst for hydrogenation of nitro arenes. The catalytic tests revealed that the catalyst had excellent catalytic activity for hydrogenation of various nitro arenes with different steric and electronic features under mild reaction condition in aqueous media. Noteworthy, the catalyst was highly selective and in the substrates with ketone or aldehyde functionalities, reduction of nitro group was only observed. The catalyst was also recyclable and only slight loss of activity was detected after each recycling run. Hot filtration test also approved true heterogeneous nature of catalysis.

Synthesis of high quality boehmite and γ-alumina for phosphorus removal from water works sludge by extraction and hydrothermal treatment

Alum sludge from water treatment was calcined and extracted to synthesize high quality boehmite and γ-alumina for phosphate removal. Synthesized boehmite and γ-alumina were able to remove phosphate quickly and effectively. Boehmite (hydrothermal treatment at 60 °C) showed maximum phosphate removal (adsorption) of 61 mg P/g followed by γ-alumina (50 mg P/g) and the boehmite hydrothermally treated at 120 °C (41 mg P/g). The degree of crystallinity gave more effect on phosphate adsorption of boehmite than that of γ-alumina. The lower the pH, the more phosphate adsorbed on the boehmite and γ-alumina (adsorb phosphate more than 4 times at pH 3 than at pH 11). Spectroscopic analysis (SEM-EDS and FTIR) indicates that phosphate are removed by ligand exchange, electrostatic attraction, and surface precipitation on the synthesized boehmite and γ-alumina.

Sustainable approaches towards green synthesis of TiO2 nanomaterials and their applications in photo-catalysis mediated sensingtomonitor environmental pollutions

Nanomaterials are gaining enormous interests owing to their novel applications that have been explored nearly in every field of our contemporary society. In this scenario, preparations of nanomaterials following green routes have attracted widespread attention in terms of sustainable, reliable and environmentally friendly practice to produce diverse nanostructures. In this review, we summarized the fundamental processes and mechanisms of green synthesis approaches of TiO₂ NPs. We explore the role of plants and microbes as natural bioresources to prepare TiO₂ NPs. Particularly, focused have been made to explore the potential of TiO₂ based nanomaterials to design variety of sensing platforms by exploiting the photo-catalysis efficiency under the influence of light source. Such types of sensing can of massive importance to monitor the environmental pollutions and thereby to invent advanced strategies to remediate hazardous pollutants to offer clean environment.

Fe3O4@SiO2-PMA-Cu magnetic nanoparticles as a novel catalyst for green synthesis of β-thiol-1,4-disubstituted-1,2,3-triazoles

The magnetic nanoparticles of Fe₃O₄ were synthesized through a solid-state reaction of hydrated iron (III) chloride, hydrated iron (II) chloride and NaOH, and then purified by calcination at high temperature. In order to protect ferrite nanoparticles from oxidation and agglomeration, and to manufacture a novel catalytic system of anchored copper on the magnetic substrate, the Fe₃O₄ was core-shelled by adding tetraethyl orthosilicate. Next, the prepared Fe₃O₄@SiO₂ was supported by phosphomolybdic acid (PMA) as the second layer of nanocomposite at 80 °C in 30 h. Eventually, the new nanocomposite of Fe₃O₄@SiO₂-PMA-Cu was successfully synthesized by adding copper (II) chloride solution and solid potassium borohydride. The structure of magnetic nanocatalyst was acknowledged through different techniques such as EDS, VSM, XRD, TEM, FT-IR, XPS, TGA, BET and FESEM. The synthesis of β-thiolo/benzyl-1,2,3-triazoles from various thiiranes, terminal alkynes and sodium azide was catalyzed by Fe₃O₄@SiO₂-PMA-Cu nanocomposite in aqueous medium. In order to obtain the optimum condition, the effects of reaction time, temperature, catalyst amount and solvent were gauged. The recycled catalyst was used for several consecutive runs without any loss of activity.

Tetradentate copper complex supported on boehmite nanoparticles as an efficient and heterogeneous reusable nanocatalyst for the synthesis of diaryl ethers

In this work boehmite nanoparticles (BNPs) were prepared through addition of aqueous solution of NaOH to solution of Al(NO₃)₃·9H₂O. Then, the surface of BNPs was modified by (3-chloropropyl)trimethoxysilane (CPTMS) and further tetradentate ligand (MP-bis(AMP)) was anchored on its surface. At final step, a tetradentate organometallic complex of copper was stabilized on the surface of modified BNPs (Cu(II)-MP-bis(AMP)@boehmite). These obtained nanoparticles were characterized using SEM imaging, WDX, EDS, AAS and TGA analysis, BET method, FT-IR spectroscopy, and XRD pattern. In continue, the catalytic activity of Cu(II)-MP-bis(AMP)@boehmite has been used as a much efficient, reusable and hybrid of organic-inorganic nanocatalyst in the synthesis of ether derivatives through C-O coupling reaction under palladium-free and phosphine-free conditions. Cu(II)-MP-bis(AMP)@boehmite catalyst has been recovered and reused again for several times in the synthesis of ether derivatives.

Silica sulfuric acid coated on SnFe2O4 MNPs: synthesis, characterization and catalytic applications in the synthesis of polyhydroquinolines

An efficient and heterogeneous novel magnetic solid sulfuric acid, immobilized on silica functionalized SnFe₂O₄, was successfully synthesized, characterized, and employed as a novel recoverable nanocatalyst for the synthesis of biologically active polyhydroquinoline derivatives. The SnFe₂O₄@SiO₂-SO₃H was easily synthesized and confirmed using various spectroscopic techniques, including FT-IR, XRD, EDX, Map, TGA, SEM and TEM analyses. The catalytic behavior of the resulting catalyst system was investigated in the Hantzsch synthesis of polyhydroquinoline derivatives. The desired products were obtained with high conversions and excellent reusability.