Preparation, characterization, and catalysis application of nano-rods zinc oxide in the synthesis of 3-indolyl-3-hydroxy oxindoles in water Original Research Article

ZnO nano-rods is synthesized successfully by a new method employing Zn(OAc)2·2H2O, NH3 and polyethylene glycol (PEG, Mw = 2000). X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and BET surface area measurement were used to characterize the structure and morphology of the catalyst. Nano-rods ZnO has been found highly effective and recyclable catalyst for synthesis of 3-indolyl-3-hydroxy oxindole derivatives by Friedel–Crafts reaction of indole with isatins in excellent yields, in water.