Synthesis and characterization of Ni nanoparticles-polyvinylamine/SBA-15 catalyst for simple reduction of aromatic nitro compounds

This work concerns the preparation and characterization of Nickel nanoparticle-PVAm/SBA-15, a polymer-inorganic hybrid composite, which was effectively employed as a novel heterogeneous catalyst for reduction of aromatic nitro compounds in the presence of NaBH4 as a reducing agent. The reaction was carried out in room temperature and an aqueous medium. The catalyst showed good activity for the reduction of a number of aromatic nitro compounds yielding the respective amine compounds in excellent yield (~ 98%) at room temperature along with good reusability.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Ni-PVAm/SBA-15 11 was used as a novel heterogeneous catalyst for swift reduction of aromatic nitro compounds. ► Ni-PVAm/SBA-15 11 was used as a novel heterogeneous catalyst for swift reduction of aromatic nitro compounds. ► Existence of both organic and inorganic phases in this composite has critical effects on the catalyst activity. ► The composite catalyst possessed excellent stability and recyclability in the reaction.