TiO2 nanoparticles immobilized organo-reduced graphene oxide hybrid nanoreactor for catalytic applications

Herein, we present the first report on TiO2 NPs based hybrid nano-reactor designed and synthesized via N-(2-amino ethyl)-3-amino propyl trimethoxy silane (AAPTMS) functionalization of graphene oxide (GO). The as-synthesized nano-reactor was characterized by means of several analytical-cum-spectroscopic techniques that support the successful attempt for the synthesis of TiO2@AAPTMS-rGO. Further, the present catalyst was evaluated for its catalytic performance towards an expedient access to biologically relevant synthesis of 2,4,5-triaryl imidazoles. The functional sites of TiO2@AAPTMS-rGO direct the catalysis from the reactant to product with high atom economy, shorter reaction time and excellent yields. Moreover, the present catalyst TiO2@AAPTMS-rGO shows promising reusability for several catalytic cycles. It also provides a robust approach for 2,4,5-triaryl imidazoles with improved performance and without significant loss in catalytic activity. Further, this catalyst can be upgraded for other organic transformations leading to numerous pharmaceuticals and environment benefits.