Dendron-functionalized core-shell superparamagnetic nanoparticles: magnetically recoverable and reusable catalysts...

A metallodendron functionalized with dicyclohexyldiphosphino palladium complex was synthesized. The metallodendron was grafted onto core-shell superparamagnetic nanoparticles (gamma-Fe(2)O(3)/polymer, 200-500 nm) to give optimal catalytic reactivity in cross-coupling reactions. The grafted nanoparticles were used as recoverable and reusable catalysts for Suzuki C--C cross-coupling reactions. They showed remarkable reactivity towards iodo- and bromoarenes under mild conditions, and unprecedented reactivity towards chloroarenes. On completion of the catalytic reaction, the catalysts were readily recovered by using a simple magnet to attract the superparamagnetic grafted nanoparticles. Catalysts were recovered more than 25 times with almost no discernable loss of reactivity.