Magnetically recoverable nanoparticles provide a cheap, easy, and environmentally benign means for catalyst recovery. In an effort to move toward catalyst systems as simple to synthesize as they are to recover, we explored the ability to use magnetic nanoparticles directly as catalysts, without or with minimal functionalization.1 We first studied reduced iron nanoparticles as an attractive replacement for platinum series metals in the industrially important hydrogenation reaction. We established that iron-iron oxide core-shell nanoparticles (Fe CSNPs) are active in the hydrogenation of olefins in ethanol, and where resilient to the presence of water.2 We further improved this system and showed that amphiphilic polymer-coated Fe(0) NPs could protect effectively in situ produced Fe(0) from water oxidation, while allowing a high catalytic activity in alcohol and water-rich mixtures.3 These Fe CSNPs were also used as seed, reducing agents, and supports to generate copper/iron nanoparticles (Cu-Fe NPs) that are able to heterogeneously catalyze the Huisgen condensation.4 Based on our experience with reduced iron nanoparticles, we looked into tackling another challenge in recyclable catalyst supports. Photocatalysts, such as Ru bipyridine complexes, feature exciting properties for organic transformations. Yet their immobilization on magnetic nanosupports is complicated by the fact most magnetic nanoparticles absorb strongly in the visible region. We synthesized Fe(0)-SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles with excellent optical properties to serve as supports for photocatalysts.

Magnetic nanoparticles as recoverable catalysts and catalysts supports: Reduced iron nanoparticles as a versatile platform

2019 Spring National Meeting

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