Fe3O4@PEG core/shell nanoparticles as magnetic nanocatalyst for acetylation of amines and alcohols using ultrasound irradiations under solvent-free conditions

Ultrasound irradiation was used to prepare one-pot Fe3O4@PEG core/shell nanostructure for the first time. The morphology, structure, and physicochemical properties were specified by different analytical techniques including field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and vibrating sample magnetometer. For acetylation of phenols, alcohols, and amines, the synthesized Fe3O4@PEG core/shell nanoparticles were used as an efficient heterogeneous and green catalyst with acetic anhydride under sonication applying mild reaction conditions. Different electron-withdrawing and electron-donating substrates indicate a prominent yield of desired products with the merit of reusability of Fe3O4@PEG nanocatalyst and magnetic separation. [GRAPHICS] .