g-C3N4-Vitamin B5-Cu@γ-Fe2O3 as a magnetic nano biocomplex photocatalyzed efficient one pot tandem synthesis of benzimidazoles and imines
摘要
This work introduces a natural-based nanostructured catalyst involving copper complexed with g-C3N4-Vitamin B5 hybrid supported on magnetic nanoparticles as an efficient photocatalytic system. Structural, morphological, optical, thermal, and magnetic assessments of the as-prepared catalyst are carried out. The one-pot aerobic oxidation of benzylic alcohols into aldehydes followed by their condensation with various aromatic amines or diamines was successfully performed under visible-light in the presence of the photocatalyst to yield imines and benzimidazoles. The reactions are affected by stereoelectronic requirements on the molecules. Evidenced by Photoluminescence spectra, effective charge separation within the photocatalyst caused by Cu-complexed with g-C3N4-Vitamin B5 hybrid supported on magnetic nanoparticles promotes its photoefficiency. The action spectra confirmed the light-driven photocatalysis and the strong responsiveness of the title photocatalyst to visible light. The catalyst proved to retain its efficiency and structural integrity during several runs. The reduction of waste, the synthesis of the photocatalyst in ethanol as an eco-friendly solvent through ultrasonic agitation, and performing the reaction in a heterogeneous, solvent-free condition using entirely safe light sources are additional advantages of this catalytic system.