An unique microwave-assisted approach for synthesis of nanosized Fe3O4 as a catalyst in transfer hydrogenation of furfural

In this manuscript, we report an unique, one pot, one step synthesis of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles. The protocol for synthesis of nanosized Fe₃O₄ was developed using only Benzyl Amine and Fe(II)acetate precursor via microwave route. Microwave route enables the synthesis of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles in short duration and eliminates the need of several chemicals. These salient features make the entire synthetic process environment benign as per green chemistry principles. The morphology and other properties of synthesized nanoparticles were studied by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM), and High-Resolution-Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM). As-synthesized Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles exhibit efficient catalytic transfer hydrogenation of furfural using isopropanol as the solvent and hydrogen source, and provide furfuryl alcohol in good yield. This nanosized Fe₃O₄ was easily removable using magnet and exhibits good reusability. It is observed that acidic-basic sites of nanosized Fe₃O₄ play a vital role in catalytic transfer hydrogenation reaction.