Green Synthesis of New Xanthene-based Azo Dyes Using CuI-graphene Nanocomposite and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities

Abstract

A number of bioactive azo dyes based on xanthene moiety were synthesized through an eco-friendly route using CuI-graphene nanocomposite as a sustainable reusable catalyst in ethanol aqueous solution at room temperature. The procedure involved the reaction of 3,4-(methylenedioxy)aniline with pre-synthesized (E)-1,2-diphenyl-1-diazene in 2: 1 molar ratio. The use of water as a green and nonvolatile solvent, energy-saving, and high yields of products within a short reaction time increase the economic and environmental superiority of the current protocol. Some of the synthesized compounds were screened for their antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Good results were obtained in both cases of antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Highlights The present study provides new insight into the application of CuI-graphene nanocomposite as a sustainable reusable catalyst for the preparation of some new xanthene-based azo dyes. It was established that several of the synthesized compounds show good antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Due to the best of our knowledge of these previously known compounds, this study is the first report of their promising antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Using water as a green and nonvolatile solvent, energy-saving, and high yields of products within a short reaction time increases the economic and environmental superiority of the current protocol.