ZnO and ZnO-nanoparticles: Efficient and reusable heterogeneous catalysts for one-pot synthesis of N-acylsulfonamides and sulfonate esters

Commercially available and preparative ZnO nanoparticles are reported as efficient and reusable catalysts for the chemoselective synthesis of N-acylsulfonamides and sulfonate esters. A one-pot sequential sulfonylation and acylation of amines took place to afford the N-acylsulfonamides in excellent yields under solvent-free conditions. The ZnO catalyst can be reused for without significant loss of catalytic activity.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (140 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► ZnO nanoparticles promote sulfonylation of alcohols and amines superior than commercial ZnO. ► ZnO catalyzes efficiently both alkylation and acylation of sulfonamides. ► Scope of one-pot synthesis of N-acylsulfonamides is obvious. ► The ZnO and ZnO nanoparticles were recyclable.