Reductive C-N Coupling of Nitroarenes: Heterogenization of MoO3 Catalyst by Confinement in Silica.

ABSTRACT

The construction of C-N bonds with nitroaromatics and boronic acids using highly efficient and recyclable catalysts remains a challenge. In this study, nanoporous MoO3 confined in silica serves as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for C-N cross-coupling of nitroaromatics with aryl or alkyl boronic acids to deliver N-arylamines and with desirable multiple reusability. Experimental results suggest that silica not only heterogenizes the Mo species in the confined mesoporous microenvironment but also significantly reduces the reaction induction period and regulates the chemical efficiency of the targeted product. The well-shaped MoO3 @m-SiO2 catalyst exhibits improved catalytic performance both in yield and turnover number, in contrast with homogeneous Mo catalysts, commercial Pd/C, or MoO3 nanoparticles. This approach offers a new avenue for the heterogeneous catalytic synthesis of valuable bioactive molecules.