Abstract:We have developed a conceptually and methodologically novel self-assembled multilayer nickel nanoparticle (NP) catalyst -sulfur-modified gold-supported Ni NPs (SANi) -for organic synthesis. The SANi catalyst was easily prepared through a three-step procedure involving simultaneous in situ metal NP and nanospace organization. This unique method does not require any conventional preformed template for immobilizing and stabilizing NPs. SANi catalyzes carbon-carbon bond-forming cross-coupling, Kumada coupling, and Negishi coupling reactions under ligand-free conditions and can be used repeatedly for these reactions. Physical analysis of SANi showed that the active species in these reactions are self-assembled multilayer zerovalent Ni NPs with a size of~3 nm.

A safe, facile and low-leaching (up to 0.17 ppm) sulfur-modified glass-supported palladium nanoparticle catalyst has been developed for the Suzuki-Miyaura coupling of aryl halides with aryl boronic acids. Most notably, this catalyst was highly recyclable and could be used up to 10 times without any discernible decrease in its activity.