Impact of Selective Nanocatalysts in Nitroarene Reduction Reactions

Prashant D. Sarvalkara; Neeraj R. Prasada; Suhas S. Kamble; Anuj S. Jagtap; Priyanka Thounaojam; Prathmesh S. Powar; Arati P. Tibea

Abstract

This review provides a concise overview of the catalytic reduction of nitroarene using NaBH4 as a reducing agent. The focus is on the use of metallic nanoparticles (NPs), transition metallic NPs, and nanocomposites as reduction catalysts, specifically Ag, Au, Pd, and Cu NPs. These NPs have unique biophysical characteristics and highly accessible surfaces, making them suitable for various research fields, including medical and environmental research. The study also investigates the potential of mono-and bi metallic NPs and nanocomposites for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) in industrial effluent and their effectiveness as insecticidal agents. Analysing the reduction reactions involves analysing the relationship between various parameters, such as concentration, volume, amount of nano catalyst, and morphology. The research provides valuable information on the working mechanisms of these NPs and nanocomposites and their unintended effects on the reduction of nitroarenes. The review highlights the significance of Ag, Au, Pd, Cu, and their composite nanomaterials in catalysing the reduction of 4-NP. Researchers commonly use these NPs as catalysts to reduce nitroaromatic compounds due to their abundance, reactivity, and ease of production. Various parameters influence the catalytic performance of these NPs, and the surface morphology of the metal and its composite nanoparticle catalysts plays a crucial role. The review also acknowledges the potential toxicity of NPs and suggests future research on bi- and tri-metallic structures with 2-D nanomaterial composites for nitroarene reduction reactions. It proposes the utilization of bimetallic nanoparticles as catalysts, which are attached to a core-shell support for easy retrieval and reuse, as an efficient approach.

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