There has been a growing interest in the use of shaped nanoparticles, including nanocubes, for catalysis because they often display selectivity and can be used for asymmetric catalysis. One drawback in the use of nanoparticles for catalysis is removing the particles from the reaction mixture. To alleviate this issue, our lab is interested in synthesizing shaped nanoparticles anchored directly onto supports. Specifically, we have been improving our strategies for synthesizing palladium nanocubes on graphite. Through SEM characterization we have established a reproducible method for manipulating the nanoparticle shape to cubes. A comparative study on the catalytic effects of the shape difference will be presented as the nanoparticle and its support are used as a catalyst in a Suzuki coupling reaction. Palladium nanoparticle catalysts are used in a Suzuki coupling reaction with specific reagents of bromotoluene, phenylboronic acid, sodium carbonate, and with varied solvents. Reproducibility of the catalyst is also examined.

Synthesis of shaped nanoparticles structured to supports

245th National Meeting (2013)

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