Eggshell Membrane-Supported Recyclable Catalytic Noble Metal Nanoparticles for Organic Reactions

Heterogeneous catalysts are used in many industrial processes. Here, we report a simple method for a template-assisted synthesis of nanoparticle catalysts and for testing their catalytic efficiency toward two model organic reactions. Eggshell membrane (ESM) reduced metal cations to metal atoms, stabilized the nanoparticles, and was used as a supporting material for the nanoparticles. The gold and silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV–vis spectroscopy, FESEM, XRD, and XPS studies. As a proof of concept, the resultant membrane-supported nanoparticles were used as a heterogeneous catalyst for the reduction of p-nitrophenol and synthesis of propargylamine. High recyclability of the reactions indicates that nanoparticles are strongly attached to the eggshell membrane surface. Easy synthesis, high catalytic activity, and recyclability make these catalysts interesting for further studies.