Nanocellulose as a Reaction Media and Stoichiometric Reagent for FeCl3‑Mediated Reductive Functionalization of Nitro Compounds

• Published in: ACS sustainable chemistry & engineering 2024-01, Vol.12 (1), p.1-9
• Main Authors: Mkrtchyan, Satenik, Purohit, Vishal B., Zapletal, Jiří, Shalimov, Oleksandr O., Iaroshenko, Viktor O.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2168-0485; 2168-0485
• DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.3c04372

Among a wide array of synthetic amides, N-aryl/alkyl amides are an important class of structural motifs having significant importance in pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. In this regard, a rapid, low-cost, and environmentally friendly synthesis of N-aryl/alkyl amides still remains in a high demand. Herein, we report a convenient route for the mechanochemical synthesis of N-aryl/alkyl amides via FeCl3-catalyzed reductive amidation of nitro compounds, as well as acylation of aliphatic/aromatic amines with carboxylic acids using nanocellulose as the reaction media/stoichiometric reducing agent. The protocol was found to be simple, efficient, and environmentally benign to obtain a diverse array of the respective amides with good to excellent yields. Furthermore, the use of nitro compounds, amines, and carboxylic acids as cheap and readily available starting materials, FeCl3 as a nontoxic catalyst, and nanocellulose as the biodegradable reaction media as well as the stoichiometric reducing agent makes this protocol in the category of a green chemical transformation.