No abstract

Cu(II)–Schiff base complex‐functionalized magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles were prepared and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy techniques. This compound acts as a highly active and selective catalyst for the oxidation of sulfides and thiols. These reactions can be carried out in ethanol or solvent‐free conditions in the presence of hydrogen peroxide with complete selectivity and very high conversion under mild reaction conditions. The designed catalytic system prevents effectively the over‐oxidation of sulfides to sulfones. Separation and recycling can also be easily done using a simple magnetic separation process. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Fe 3 O 4 -Schiff base of Cu(II) is found to be a recyclable and heterogeneous catalyst for the rapid and efficient synthesis of various 2,3-dihydroquinazolin-4(1H)-one derivatives from the two-component condensation of 2-aminobenzamide and an aldehyde. This reaction is simple, green and cost-effective. Separation and recycling can also be easily done by magnetic decantation of the Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles with an external magnet. The prepared catalyst was characterized using thermogravimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, vibrating sample magnetometry, inductively coupled plasma analysis, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy.