Schiff Base Pt(II) Complex Intercalated Montmorillonite: A Robust Catalyst for Hydrogenation of Aromatic Nitro Compounds at Room Temperature

Abstract

Room temperature and atmospheric pressure assisted hydrogenation of aromatic nitro compounds is achieved with a high proficiency over Schiff base Pt(II) complex supported montmorillonite. Usually hydrogenation reactions require severe conditions to crop up. However, our catalyst could alter these extremities exhibiting excellent yields with 100% selectivity. The catalyst was prepared by intercalating Schiff base Pt(II) complex into montmorillonite by simple cation exchange mechanism. The intercalation of the complex inside the clay matrix was supported by various characterization techniques like X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric and differential thermogravimetric analysis, BET surface area measurement, UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The stability of the catalyst during the course of the reaction was confirmed from its post catalytic FT-IR analysis. The catalyst could be reused three times without noticeable loss of its catalytic activity.