Selective Heterogeneous C-H Activation/Halogenation Reactions Catalyzed by Pd@MOF Nanocomposites

A directed heterogeneous C-H activation/halogenation reaction catalyzed by readily synthesized Pd@MOF nanocatalysts was developed. The heterogeneous Pd catalysts used were a novel and environmentally benign Fe-based metal-organic framework (MOF)(Pd@MIL-88B-NH2(Fe)) and the previously developed Pd@MIL-101-NH2(Cr). Very high conversions and selectivities were achieved under very mild reaction conditions and in short reaction times. A wide variety of directing groups, halogen sources, and substitution patterns were well tolerated, and valuable polyhalogenated compounds were synthesized in a controlled manner. The synthesis of the Pd-functionalized Fe-based MOF and the recyclability of the two catalysts are also presented.