Highly efficient silver nanoparticles supported nanocrystalline zirconosilicate catalyst for the epoxidation and hydration reactions

Abstract

Nanocrystalline zirconosilicate with MFI framework structure was hydrothermally synthesized by the addition of amphiphilic organosilane in the synthesis composition of conventional zirconosilicate. Silver nanoparticles were supported on the surface of nanocrystalline zirconosilicate. Catalyst exhibited exceptional high activity in the epoxidation of olefins. Application of the catalyst was extended in the green catalytic hydration reaction of alkynes and nitriles. Hydration reaction using zirconosilicate does not involve toxic metals or corrosive acidic condition. Bifunctional nature of the catalyst and optimum polarizability of Zr present in the zeolite matrix are responsible for the high catalytic activity. Recycling and leaching experiments suggest that the catalyst can be reused without significant loss in the activity. Nanocrystalline zirconosilicate offers several attractive features such as sustainable synthetic route, stability, high yields, and recyclability