Sulfuric acid heterogenized on magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles: A new and efficient magnetically reusable catalyst for condensation reactions

Immobilized sulfuric acid on magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 MNPs-OSO3H) as a new solid acid nanocomposite was successfully synthesized and its catalytic activity in a series of condensation reactions was studied. High catalytic activity, simple separation from reaction mixture by an external magnet and good reusability are several eco-friendly advantages of this catalytic system. It is noteworthy that this catalytic system is applicable to a wide range of spectrum of aromatic aldehydes, and the desired products were obtained in good to excellent yields under mild conditions. The use of ecofriendly solvents makes also this synthetic protocol ideal and fascinating from the environmental point of view.