Palladium(0) nanoparticles supported on a polymeric membrane, CA/Pd(0), were found to be a highly efficient “dip catalyst” (heterogeneous catalyst) for Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions.

A five-week miniproject is described for an upper-division experimental organic chemistry course. The activities include synthesis of a phenylboronic acid via a Grignard reaction and its use in a Suzuki−Miyaura crosscoupling reaction. Technical skills and concepts normally presented in practical organic chemistry courses are covered, including the use of an inert atmosphere (Schlenk tube technique), separation of mixtures (filtration), melting range determination, infrared (IR) spectrum, stoichiometric calculations and gas chromatography techniques.

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