Background:
There has been an increasing curiosity over the past few years to carry out organic
reactions over heterogeneous nanocatalysts. Microwave activation coupled with a nanocatalyst along
with water as a reaction medium makes the process further green. Microwave activation as a green process
reduces reaction times, enhances product purity and improves chemical yield.
Methods:
Nitrile group chemistry has been explored by many researchers across the globe owing to its
interesting properties and its importance in synthetic chemistry. Despite several methods being available
for the synthesis of nitriles, microwave assisted synthesis of nitriles using Fe3O4 nanoparticles appears
more promising. The present study is intended at developing a recyclable magnetite (Fe3O4) nanoparticles
catalyzed protocol towards the synthesis of organonitrile derivatives using one pot reaction.
Results:
The above protocol incorporates the use of microwave for heating and water as reaction medium.
Several substituted nitriles could be synthesized for excellent yields. The magnetite nanoparticles can be
reused for new reaction without significant loss in activity.
Conclusion:
The experiment makes the protocol simple, environment friendly and economically feasible.