Stable gold nanoparticle encapsulated in silica-dendrimers organic–inorganic hybrid composite as recyclable catalyst for oxidation of alcohol

A series of Au nanoparticles (NPs) smaller than 5 nm were successfully encapsulated in SBA-15/dendrimers organic–inorganic hybrid composite. The obtained catalysts were characterized by XPS, XRD and TEM. The results of XPS and XRD indicate the existence of Au NPs in the hybrid matrix. TEM images display the Au NPs with narrow size distribution are monodisperse in SBA-15 channels. Moreover, the size and the location of Au NPs can be easily controlled by regulating the experimental parameters. Such Au NPs can effectively catalyze oxidation of various alcohols under mild condition. The effects of particle size and structure of supporting dendrimers on the catalytic activity are discussed in detail.

A series of Au nanoparticles (NPs) were successfully encapsulated in dendrimer/SBA-15 organic–inorganic hybrid composite. The Au NPs are monodisperse in the channel of SBA-15 with narrow size distribution. Such Au catalysts exhibit excellent catalytic activity and recyclability in the oxidation reaction of alcohols under mild condition.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► The Au NPs are highly dispersive in the channels of SBA-15 with narrow size distribution.
► The size and location of Au NPs can be readily controlled by regulating the experimental parameters.
► The obtained Au catalysts exhibited highly catalytic activity in the alcohol oxidation reaction and the oxidation yield for many alcohols can reach more than 95%.
► The Au NPs were stabilized firmly in the hybrid matrix and such catalysts can be easily recycled more than 5 times with minimal loss in activity.
► The catalysts in our work are friendly to the environment and can act as green catalysts.