Microcrystalline cellulose modified with Fe(II)– and Ni(II)–phthalocyanines: Syntheses, characterizations, and catalytic applications

Abstract

Phthalocyanines of Fe(II) and Ni(II) were immobilized on microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) via chemical binding. MCC was obtained from cotton as a cheap and abundant source of cellulose. The new composites were characterized by FT-IR, Flame Absorption Atomic Spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis, Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscope, and Transmission Electron Microscope. The nanocomposites showed high surface areas due to use of MCC as the support in the syntheses procedures. The catalytic activities of composites were examined in the oxidations of alcohols, and ethylbenzene. The oxidation of alcohols to the corresponding aldehydes or ketones and ethylbenzene to acetophenone were carried out with high yields and excellent selectivities. The catalysts are recyclable for 6 times without any decrease in the oxidation reaction yield.