Cu@DPP-SPION: A Novel and Versatile Catalyst for the Synthesis of Thioxo-Tetrahydropyrimidine Derivatives under Mild Reaction Conditions

INTRODUCTION: The development of efficient and sustainable catalytic methodologies has garnered considerable attention in contemporary organic synthesis. METHODS: Herein, we present a novel approach employing the Cu@DPP-SPION catalyst for the synthesis of ethyl 4-(aryl)-6-methyl-2-thioxo-1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidine-5-carboxylate derivatives. This versatile catalytic system incorporates copper nanoparticles supported on 4- (1H-imidazo[4,5-f][1,10]phenanthrolin-2-yl)benzoic acid-functionalized superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs). The catalyst was meticulously characterized through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis. The catalytic process, exemplified by the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, demonstrated high isolated yields, attesting to the robust performance of the catalyst. RESULTS: Furthermore, the reusability of the catalyst was validated through five consecutive reactions without a notable decrease in yield, while structural stability was confirmed by SEM analysis. The methodology combines green reaction conditions, room temperature operation, and facile magnetic catalyst separation, underscoring its potential for sustainable synthesis. CONCLUSION: This work highlights the promise of the Cu@DPP-SPION catalyst as an innovative tool in heterogeneous catalysis and its role in advancing efficient and environmentally conscious synthetic methodologies.