An efficient, soluble, and recyclable multiwalled carbon nanotubes-supported TEMPO for oxidation of alcohols

Abstract

The immobilization of homogeneous catalysts is a continuing goal for combining the advantages of both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis. However, a significant loss in catalytic activity is often found in the immobilization of a homogeneous catalyst. Herein, we report a novel strategy consisting of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) functionalized with homogeneous catalysts that are developed to combine the positive aspects of solid and soluble supports. Using the oxidation of alcohols as a model reaction, the supported catalysts (MWNTs–TEMPO) can be homogeneously dispersed in the reaction medium to conquer the mass transfer limitation, which leads to their catalytic activity being far superior to their heterogeneous counterpart and similar to their parent catalysts. In addition, they exhibit the additional advantages of characterization with solution-based techniques, easy separation and reutilization.