Isatin-based three-component synthesis of new spirooxindoles using magnetic nano-sized copper ferrite

Abstract

Magnetic nano-sized copper ferrite was prepared via a simple synthetic route and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We found that copper ferrite nanoparticles (CuFe₂O₄ NPs) possessed high catalytic activity in the one-pot reaction of isatin with malononitrile and Michael donors for the synthesis of spirooxindoles. The magnetic nano-sized copper ferrite exhibited several advantages such as stability, safety, and easy recyclability. The novel procedure for the synthesis of spirooxindoles has some interesting features such as high efficiency, simplicity, high rate and environmental safety, good to excellent product yield, and avoidance of toxic organic solvents.