Sustainable, One-Step Fabrication of 2-Amino-4H-Chromene Analogues Using an Innovative SnO–CeO2 Nanocatalyst

Abstract

This study explores a sustainable, efficient, and robust approach for synthesizing 2-amino-4H-chromene derivatives using a novel SnO–CeO₂ nanocatalyst. The synthesis employs a one-pot, three-component reaction involving aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile, and β-naphthol under mild reaction conditions. The SnO–CeO₂ nanocomposite was synthesized via the coprecipitation method and characterized using different techniques, including ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) Nanocomposite exhibited exceptional catalytic performance, achieving high product yields (81–96%) with significant reductions in reaction time and energy requirements. Additionally, the catalyst demonstrated excellent recyclability, retaining its activity over six consecutive cycles with minimal loss of efficiency, thereby underscoring its potential for sustainable and environmentally friendly applications. The synthesized 2-amino-4H-chromene derivatives were analysed using ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR spectroscopy, which confirmed their structural integrity and high purity. This methodology represents a green and efficient strategy for producing 2-amino-4H-chromenes, advancing green chemistry principles and promoting sustainable catalysis.