Synthesis and characterization of Pd(0) Schiff base complex supported on halloysite nanoclay as a reusable catalyst for treating wastewater contaminants in aqueous media

In this study, a novel and recyclable heterogeneous Pd(0) catalyst was synthesized via the immobilization of a Pd(0)-Schiff base complex onto the surface of halloysite (HaI) nanoclay and fully characterized by FTIR, TEM, TG/DTG, FE-SEM, EDS, elemental mapping, XPS and XRD. The catalytic role of Pd NPs@HaI nanocatalyst was then evaluated in the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP), congo red (CR), K3[Fe(CN)6] and methyl orange (MO) by employing NaBH4 as the reducing agent at room temperature. The main advantages of using Pd NPs@HaI catalyst include an easy experimental procedure, short reaction time, low loading of the catalyst, and the ability to use various contaminants. The ensuing Pd NPs@HaI demonstrated superior catalytic prowess (100% conversion within a few seconds for the aforementioned pollutants), excellent stability and superior recyclability. The results displayed that the nanocatalyst could be reused by simple filtration for several times, demonstrating high recyclability and excellent chemical stability.

Automated summary

In this study, a novel and recyclable heterogeneous Pd(0) catalyst was synthesized and characterized on halloysite nanoclay. The catalyst showed excellent catalytic performance in the reduction of various pollutants, with 100% conversion achieved within a short period of time. The Pd NPs@HaI catalyst also demonstrated superior stability and recyclability, making it a promising candidate for environmental remediation applications.