The Ability of NCP@POCl۲-x Core-Shell Magnetic Nano-Catalyst for Simultaneous Conversion of Epoxides into Cyanohydrin and α,β-Unsaturated Carboxylic Acid

This paper presents a new eco-friendly, and remarkably efficient heterogeneous magnetic nanocomposite, NCP@POCl۲-x ( Fe۳O۴ @SiO۲@ CS @POCl۲-x ), designed for the regioselective production of cyanide from epoxides using NaCN, subsequently facilitating the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids. The reactions were conducted under mild conditions, demonstrating the catalyst's remarkable performance with high yields. The presence of POCl۲-x and the influence of water and heat facilitated the transformation of epoxides into cyanohydrin and α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids. Remarkably, the reactions demonstrate excellent regioselectivity, producing clean and quantitative products. NCP @ POCl۲-x is a heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst with a strong magnetic core of Fe۳O۴ surrounded by chitosan as a green layer and functionalized by the POCl۲-x group. This catalyst can be easily separated using external magnetic force. The combination of heterogeneity, magnetic properties, easy recovery, and exceptional performance establishes NCP @ POCl۲-x as a valuable tool for efficient and selective transformations of epoxides.

Keywords:

Nanocatalyst , epoxide , Magnetic Chitosan , Cyanohydrin , α-β-Unsaturated Carboxylic Acid