Copper Zirconium Phosphate as an Efficient Catalyst for Multi-component Reactions in Solvent-Free Conditions

Abstract

Copper zirconium phosphate nanoparticles were used as a convenient and efficient catalyst for multi-component reactions in solvent-free conditions. The catalyst is easy to prepare and shows interesting catalytic properties. The catalyst was characterized by some instrumental techniques such as ICP-OES, EDS, XRD, BET, NH3-TPD, Py-FTIR, SEM, and TEM. These analyses revealed that the interlayer distance in the catalyst increased from 7.6 to 8.8 A when Cu2+ was intercalated between the layers, whereas the crystallinity of the material was reduced. The steric and electronic properties of the different substrates had a significant influence on the reaction conditions. These protocols have the advantages of inexpensive materials, mild reaction conditions, excellent yields, short reaction times, and simple and clean work-up. This work introduces a new application of this catalyst, not described in the literature up to now. In addition, the catalyst can be recovered and reused for three times without a significant loss in its activity and selectivity.