Nitro to amine reductions using aqueous flow catalysis under ambient conditions

A catalyst based on Pd on glass wool (Pd@GW) shows exceptional performance and durability for the reduction of nitrobenzene to aniline at room temperature and ambient pressure in aqueous solutions. The reaction is performed in a flow system and completed with 100% conversion under a variety of flow rates, 2 to 100 mLmin(-1) (normal laboratory fast flow conditions). Sodium borohydride or dihydrogen perform well as reducing agents. Scale-up of the reaction to flows of 100 mLmin(-1) also shows high conversions and robust catalytic performance. Catalyst deactivation can be readily corrected by flowing a NaBH4 solution. The catalytic system proves to be generally efficient, performing well with a range of itroaromatic compounds. The shelf life of the catalyst is excellent and its reusability after 6-8 months of storage showed the same performance as for the fresh catalyst.

Automated summary

The Pd@GW catalyst shows exceptional performance and durability for reducing nitrobenzene to aniline at room temperature and ambient pressure in aqueous solutions. It performs well under a variety of flow rates and maintains high conversions even at high flow rates. The catalyst has excellent shelf life and can be reused after months of storage with the same performance as when fresh.