Robust, highly active, and stable supported Co(ii) nanoparticles on magnetic cellulose nanofiber-functionalized for...

The new recyclable cobalt three-core magnetic catalyst obtained by anchoring a Schiff base ligand sector and cellulose nanofiber slings on MNP (Fe₃O₄) was prepared and named as MNP@CNF@ATSM-Co(ii). Separately, MNPs and CNF have adsorbent properties of great interest. In this way, this catalyst was designed to synthesize piperidine derivatives under solvent-free conditions and alcohol oxidation reactions in EtOH as the solvent. It should be noted that this catalyst is environmentally safe and does not need an external base. This MNPs@CNF@ATSM-Co(ii) separable catalyst has been evaluated using various characterization techniques such as FT-IR, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, EDS, ICP, TGA, DLS, HRTEM, and VSM. The catalyst was compatible with a variety of benzyl alcohols, benzaldehydes, and amines derivatives, and gave complimentary coupling products with sufficient interest for all of them. The synergistic performance of Co (trinuclear) in the catalyst was demonstrated and its different homologs such as MNPs, MNPs@CNF, MNPs@CNF@ATS-Co(ii), and MNPs@CNF@ATSM-Co(ii) were separately synthesized and applied to a model reaction, and then their catalytic activity was investigated. Also, the performance of these components for the oxidation reaction of alcohols was evaluated. The advantages of the current protocol include the use of a sustainable and safe low temperature, eco-friendly solvent no additive, and long-term stability and magnetic recyclability of the catalyst for at least five successive runs, thus following green chemistry principles. This protocol is a benign and environment-friendly method for oxidation and heterocycle synthesis. This powerful super-magnetic catalyst can use its three arms to advance the reactions, displaying its power for multi-component reactions and oxidation.