Magnetic CuFe2O4 nanoparticles: a retrievable catalyst for oxidative amidation of aldehydes with amine hydrochloride salts

The application of magnetic CuFe2O4 nanoparticles for the oxidative amidation of aldehydes with amine hydrochloride salts is described. A wide range of amides have been synthesized in good to excellent yields under mild conditions. Chiral amide also synthesized from its corresponding chiral amine salt with retention of the stereochemistry. In particular, the performance of the magnetic separation of the catalyst was very efficient and an alternative to time, solvent and energy-consuming separation procedures. The catalytic activity of the catalyst remains unaltered after five consecutive cycles, making it environmentally benign and widely applicable due to its efficiency, ease of handling and cost effectiveness. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.