ZnFe₂O₄ nanoparticles: A green and recyclable magnetic catalyst for fast and regioselective conversion of epoxides to vicinal hydroxythiocyanates using NH₄SCN under solvent-free conditions

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

ABSTRACT

ZnFe₂O₄ nanoparticles were synthesized and used as recyclable magnetic catalyst in the solvent-free conversion of different epoxides to vicinal hydroxythiocyanates with NH₄SCN at room temperature. The reactions were carried out by grinding in a mortar with perfect regioselectivity within short times (2-25 min) and with high to excellent yields (75–95%). The nanocatalyst was separated easily using an external magnet and reused for four consecutive cycles without any noticeable loss of efficiency or magnetic property.

KEYWORDS:

• Epoxide
• nano ZnFe₂O₄
• NH₄SCN
• solvent-free
• vicinal hydroxythiocyanate

Acknowledgments

Financial support of this work by the Research Councils of Payame Noor University is gratefully acknowledged.