| Abstract |
A microwave-assisted protocol to selectively produce benzaldehyde from neat styrene was developed by using ferrite magnetic nanoparticles, MFe2O4 [M = Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+ or Zn2+] as catalysts. The CoFe2O4 nanoparticles revealed the best catalytic performance towards the selective production of benzaldehyde (93\% selectivity at 86\% styrene conversion) in 3 h at 80 degrees C using t-BuOOH as oxidant. The catalyst can be readily isolated by using an external magnet, and no significant loss of activity is observed when reused up to 5 consecutive runs. The low E-factor (mass ratio of waste to desired product) value (2.5) is indicative of the eco-friendly nature of the present catalytic system. |
