Physicochemical characterization and catalytic applications of MoO3–ZrO2 composite oxides towards one pot synthesis of amidoalkyl naphthols

A series of MoO3–ZrO2 composite oxide catalysts were prepared by coprecipitation and impregnation methods and characterized by XRD, Raman, UV–Vis, TEM and sorptometric techniques. Characterization studies indicated the presence of tetragonal zirconia phase and well dispersed MoO3 species as isolated and polymolybdate clusters in the composite oxide. The MoO3(20 mol%)–ZrO2 material was used as efficient catalyst for synthesis of amidoalkyl naphthols under solvent free conditions using conventional as well as microwave heating. The results obtained clearly showed that the composite oxide catalyst was recyclable and highly efficient for the reaction giving good yield and purity of the products.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch Highlights► MoO3–ZrO2 prepared by coprecipitation show improved physicochemical characteristics ► Selective stabilization of tetragonal phase of zirconia in presence of MoO3 ► The MoO3 species are present in the form of isolated and cluster molybdates ► Presence of MoO3 on zirconia matrix modifies its catalytic activity ► MoO3–ZrO2 demonstrated as efficient catalyst for synthesis of amidoalkyl naphthols