Synthesis and characterization of highly efficient and recoverable Cu@MCM-41-(2-hydroxy-3-propoxypropyl) metformin mesoporous catalyst and its uses in Ullmann type reactions

The functionalized MCM-41-(2-hydroxy-3-propoxypropyl) metformin was prepared and anchored by copper ions to employ as a catalyst for the Ullmann C-X coupling reaction. The catalyst was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy measurements and, N-2 adsorption-desorption isotherms. The benefits of this catalyst are the use of inexpensive and non-toxic metformin ligand, easy catalyst/product separation, and catalyst recycling. The catalyst can be reused at least for five repeated cycles without a significant loss of its catalytic activity or metal leaching.

Automated summary

A novel functionalized MCM-41-(2-hydroxy-3-propoxypropyl) metformin catalyst was prepared and anchored by copper ions, exhibiting excellent catalytic performance. The catalyst utilizes inexpensive and non-toxic metformin ligand, allowing for easy separation and recycling without significant loss of activity.