Reverse micellar based synthesis of ultrafine MgO nanoparticles (8–10 nm): Characterization and catalytic properties

Anisotropic nanostructures of magnesium oxalate dihydrate were synthesized using cationic surfactant based microemulsion method. The cationic surfactant plays an important role in forming the anisotropic structures. The oxalate nanostructures acts as an excellent precursor for the synthesis of fine magnesium oxide nanoparticles (∼10 nm). Both the precursor and the oxide were characterized by using PXRD, IR, surface area and HRTEM. The surface area of these surfactant free oxide nanoparticles was found to be 108 m2/g. The catalytic activity of this basic oxide was examined for the Claisen–Schmidt condensation reaction and was found to be comparable to the best reported for the conventionally prepared MgO. Chalcone formation was found to increase with time as observed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The reusability of the catalyst was checked by using the same catalyst twice which showed a reduced percentage (50% compared to first cycle) conversion.

Microemulsion based synthesis and catalytic activity of magnesium oxide nanoparticles has been studied towards the Claisen–Schimdt condensation reaction.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (122 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Microemulsion mediated synthesis of high surface area oxide nanoparticles.
► Ultrafine synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (8–10 nm).
► Cheaper than the conventional alkoxide based chemical method.
► Catalytic activity comparable to the best reported using conventional method.