MCF-supported boronic acids as efficient catalysts for direct amide condensation of carboxylic acids and amines

For efficient direct amide condensations, a new class of catalysts are developed by immobilizing boronic acids on mesocellular siliceous foam. Associated with their large pores, the microenvironments surrounding the immobilized active species greatly influence the catalytic activity. The fluoroalkyl moieties on the silica surface significantly enhance the catalytic performance along with easy recovery and reuse. This approach proposes a potential way to optimize various types of silica-supported catalysts.