Environmentally benign synthesis of polyhydroquinolines by Co3O4–CNT as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst

•CNTs as an excellent support for the metal oxide in catalytic systems•Introducing Co3O4–CNTs for the synthesis of polyhydroquinolines•Generality of the catalyst, easiness of separation, and recycled several times

A novel and eco-friendly synthesis of polyhydroquinolines is efficiently catalyzed by Co3O4–CNT nanocomposites. This recyclable catalytic system provides a simple strategy to generate a variety of polyhydroquinolines under mild conditions. Utilization of easy reaction condition, recyclable nanocatalyst, reduced environmental impacts and simple work-up make this methodology an interesting option for the eco-friendly synthesis of polyhydroquinolines.

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