Fe3O4@cellulose composite nanocatalyst: Preparation, characterization and application in the synthesis of benzodiazepines

A cellulose-based nanocomposite with highly loaded Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles was prepared and characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. Its catalytic activity was investigated in the condensation reaction between o -phenylenediamines and ketones that produced benzodiazepines in good to excellent yields under mild reaction conditions. A good correlation between the amount of surface acid sites and the morphology of the catalyst and its catalytic activity was observed. The nanocatalyst could be recycled and reused without significant loss of its catalytic activity. • A cellulose-based nanocomposite with highly loaded Fe 3 O 4 was prepared. • Its morphology was characterized by FT-IR, SEM, EDX and XRD analyses. • Its catalytic activity was excellent in the synthesis of benzodiazepines. • Work-up procedure was easy.