Microballs Containing Ni(0)Pd(0) Nanoparticles for Highly Selective Micellar Catalysis in Water

Abstract

Both Ni(0) complexes and nanoparticles (NPs) are unstable in water, which poses a significant hindrance to their application in aqueous synthetic catalysis. To overcome these barriers, ligated Ni(0) nanoparticles (diameter <1 nm) containing a minimum amount of Pd(0) in the microballs formed of amphiphile PS-750-M are developed and applied in the highly selective carbamate cleavage. Selectivity and functional group tolerance are thoroughly investigated. Control experiments revealed the importance of an individual component of the nanocatalyst. Use of our proline-based amphiphile PS-750-M is critical for achieving microball architecture, the stability of nanoparticles, and desired catalytic activity. Once formed, microballs can be isolated and stored at ambient temperature. Catalyst is thoroughly characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, infrared, and cyclic voltammetry. For selective catalysis, zero oxidation state of both Ni and Pd is crucial. On the basis of catalyst characterization and control experiments, the plausible reaction mechanism is proposed.