Self-assembled sulfated zirconia nanocrystals with mesoscopic void space synthesized via ionic liquid as a porogen and its catalytic activity for the synthesis of biodiesels

Self-assembled ZrO2 nanocrystals have been synthesized through a facile steam-assisted ionothermal method using 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium chloride ([bmim][Cl]) as a porogen. The sulphonated, ZrO2 has been employed as efficient, recyclable, and environmentally benign heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of biodiesel products.