Transition metal nanoparticles supported on mesoporous polyaniline catalyzed reduction of nitroaromatics

Abstract

Transition metal nanoparticles supported on mesoporous polyaniline (Meso-PANI) were synthesized by the self assembly of dual surfactants followed by the in situ reduction of metal precursors in aqueous solution. Catalysts were investigated in the reduction of nitroaromatics in the presence of NaBH4 as a reducing agent. Among the catalysts investigated, Cu(10%)-Meso-PANI exhibited the highest activity. Cu supported on Meso-PANI exhibited significantly high activity compared to Cu supported on conventional PANI. Recycling experiments suggest that catalysts can be reused without significant loss in catalytic activity.