A new functionalized mesoporous matrix supported Pd(ii)-Schiff base complex: an efficient catalyst for the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction

A new Pd(II) bounded 2D-hexagonally ordered functionalized MCM-41 type material (IV) has been synthesized. Functionalization was carried out by the anchoring of 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane in the MCM-41 type mesoporous material, followed by grafting with 2,6-diacetylpyridine (DAP) to give a N3-type Schiff base chelating attachment for the Pd(II) species. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) studies have been used to characterize the material. Material IV behaves as a highly active catalyst towards Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction for the synthesis of biaryl organics. In addition, IV acts as a true heterogeneous catalyst in coupling reaction. It was found that this catalyst is highly efficient and recyclable towards Suzuki-Miyaura reaction with high turn over frequencies. X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) analysis was employed to understand the oxidation state of the palladium atom in the catalyst (IV) and its loading in the material.