Clay encapsulated ZnO nanoparticles as efficient catalysts for N-benzylation of amines

ZnO nanoparticles encapsulated in K10-clay (K10–ZnO) are synthesised and characterised by UV-DRS, Emission spectra, powder XRD, SEM and HRTEM analyses. The constrained space and also the polar active sites in the clay support stabilise zinc oxide nanoparticles by preventing that aggregation and consequently no extra-capping agent is required. The synthesised ZnO nanoparticles are used for the efficient N-benzylation of anilines and the reusability of the catalyst is also studied. A suitable mechanism is proposed for this transformation.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Clay acts as a support for nano ZnO by stabilising and preventing its aggregation. ► K10 clay–nano ZnO is used as an efficient catalyst for N-benzylation of amines. ► The reusability of the catalyst is also excellent.