Design and synthesis of a new magnetic metal organic framework as a versatile platform for immobilization of acidic catalysts and CO2 fixation reaction

Abstract

In this study, a new magnetic metal organic framework (MNP@MOF) with a core–shell structure has been introduced as an efficient and versatile platform for immobilization of Preyssler (H₁₄[NaP₅W₃₀O₁₁₀]) heteropolyacid (PR HPA). The chemical structure of the nanocatalyst was analyzed by using different techniques, including HRTEM, TEM, HRTEM mapping, SEM, EDX, TGA, XRD, VSM, BET and ICP. These analyses confirmed the core–shell and spherical structure of the catalyst and successful immobilization of PR HPA on its surface. After complete characterization, the efficiency of the catalyst was tested for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates by the chemical fixation of carbon dioxide. Different epoxides were converted to cyclic carbonates in the presence of 0.4 mol% of catalyst and a 0.3 MPa CO₂ pressure under solvent-free conditions. To date, this reaction has been performed with various heterogeneous catalysts, but this is the first report on the use of PR HPA and MNP@MOF for this reaction.