Fe–Zr–Cu mixed-metal oxide nanocatalyst for selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols: Synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance

Haghi, Hoda; Sedrpoushan, Alireza

doi:10.22104/jpst.2026.8484.1300

Fe–Zr–Cu mixed-metal oxide nanocatalyst for selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols: Synthesis, characterization, and catalytic performance

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

Hoda Haghi

Alireza Sedrpoushan

Department of Chemical Technologies, Iranian Research Organization for Science and Technology (IROST), P.O.Box 33535111, Tehran, Iran.

10.22104/jpst.2026.8484.1300

Abstract

A mixed nano-metal oxide of Fe-Zr-Cu was synthesized using a hydrothermal technique. The chemical structure and nature of the catalyst were characterized using the XRD, SEM, EDS and Elemental map. SEM images revealed a sample with Cauliflower-like shape. The resultant heterogeneous catalyst was used to selectively oxidize different alcohols to corresponding aldehydes, under mild conditions with acetonitrile as a solvent and hydrogen peroxide as an oxidizing agent. The influence of reaction temperature and the ratio of molar alcohols to oxidant were examined according to the material/product ratio. Conversion efficiencies ranging from 65 to 80% were achieved under optimal conditions at the presence of benzyl alcohol. The results are so promising and demonstrate the potential application of the heterogeneous catalyst for selective oxidation of benzyl alcohols.

Keywords

Mixed nano-metal oxides

Heterogeneous catalyst

Oxidation

Benzyl alcohol

Subjects