A highly efficient synthesis of N-glycosyl-1,2,3-triazoles using a recyclable cellulose-copper(0) catalyst in water

•Cellulose supported Cu nanoparticles were prepared as a heterogeneous catalyst.•Cellulose-Cu(0) catalysed the reaction of glycosyl azides and alkynes efficiently.•The catalytic reaction was carried out in water without external ligands or base.•The heterogeneous catalyst was easily recoverable and efficiently reusable.

Cellulose supported copper(0) was used as a highly active heterogeneous catalyst to synthesize N-glycosyl-1,2,3-triazoles from glycosyl azides and alkynes. Cellulose-Cu(0) catalysed the cycloaddition reaction to produce the corresponding products in good to excellent yields in water. This heterogeneous catalyst has the advantages of high catalytic reactivity and low copper leaching. The separation and reuse of the catalyst are easy and efficient.

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