Recyclable organocatalysts based on hybrid silicas

Abstract

The quest for efficient and “greener” catalysts for chemical processes has set a precedent for the development of reliable methods for their synthesis. These methods, based on heterogeneous platforms, present an excellent opportunity because they allow recyclability and easy work-up and handling. Hybrid organosilica-based materials are of interest particularly as heterogeneous platforms, which can operate with a synergy between the well-defined properties of the organocatalytic fragments and the structural and mechanical stability as well as the presumed chemical inertness of the silica matrices. This review focuses on recent advances in the incorporation methods to strongly bind organocatalysts into organosilica scaffolds and their promising applications in supported organocatalysis.