A COF template-derived mesoporous CeO2-supported Au nanoparticles catalyst for the oxidative esterification of benzaldehydes and benzyl alcohols

Abstract

The direct oxidative esterification of benzaldehydes and benzyl alcohols to high value-added aromatic esters under mild and green reaction conditions is significant in the fine chemical industry. The accurate design of catalysts with high catalytic performance is crucial for this process. Herein, 2,4,6-trimethylpyridine, benzoic anhydride, and terephthalaldehyde were used to prepare a covalent organic framework (COF) material, which was then used as a template to construct a mesoporous CeO₂-supported Au nanoparticles catalyst. The obtained Au@CeO₂ catalyst was thoroughly characterized, and it possessed a mesoporous structure with a high surface area. Meanwhile, the as-prepared Au@CeO₂ exhibited excellent catalytic performance in the oxidative esterification of benzaldehydes and benzyl alcohols with methanol, affording the corresponding aromatic esters under mild and green reaction conditions. Furthermore, the Au@CeO₂ catalyst could also be recycled. Therefore, this study provides a green and sustainable pathway for the synthesis of high-value-added esters through a direct oxidative esterification strategy.