Polyurethane nanomicelles: a novel eco-friendly and efficient polymeric ionic solvent for the Cannizzaro reaction

Abstract

Aqueous polyurethane dispersions (APUDs) are commodity synthetic polymers and have a broad range of well-known applications, nevertheless their possible use as a green catalyst or ionic solvent is yet unknown. Here, we demonstrate how a polyurethane dispersion facilitates the progress of the Cannizzaro reaction under very mild alkaline conditions. We introduce anionic polyurethane nanomicelles as an expeditious green polymer ionic solvent for the Cannizzaro reaction. The reusable and novel eco-friendly polymer solvent, excellent yields of the products, low reaction times and low reaction temperatures are the main advantages of this reaction.