Magnetically Nanoparticles of Copper ferrite@antimony: A High Performance Recyclable Catalyst for NaBH4 Reduction of Nitroarenes to Arylamines

Reduction of nitroarenes to arylamines is one of the most important reactions in organic synthesis due to arylamines are versatile intermediates and precursors in the preparation of dyes, pharmaceuticals, pigments, agrochemicals and polymers [1,2]. In this context, various protocols as well reducing agents are available for the titled transformation [3]. The main limitations of these works were prolonged reaction time, low yields, harsh reaction conditions, use of harmful organic solvents, tedious work‐up procedures and the use of expensive catalysts. In this study, we have used magnetically nanoparticles of CuFe2O4@Sb as a heterogeneous catalyst for reduction of nitroarenes to arylamines in water (Scheme 1). Remarkable reusability and easy separation of the nanocatalyst, high yields and mild reaction conditions as well as the benefits of using water as a green solvent are the advantages which make this protocol a perfect candidate for the reduction of nitroarenes.