Synthesis and Immobilization of Metal Nanoparticles Using Photoactive Polymer-Decorated Zeolite L Crystals and Their Application in Catalysis

Abstract

A facile route to generate Au and Pd nanoparticles (NPs) on zeolite L crystals decorated with photoactive polymer brushes is described. The polymers used in this approach serve a dual role: Upon irradiation with UV light, they release highly reducing ketyl radicals in a Norrish-Type-I reaction. These radicals serve as one electron donors to reduce metal salts to the corresponding metal NPs. At the same time the polymer shell stabilizes the in situ generated metal NPs. It is shown that the zeolite-polymer-NP composites can be used as recyclable catalysts for the oxidation of benzylic alcohols to aldehydes and the stereoselective semihydrogenation of alkynes to Z-alkenes. The polymer shell in these hybrid catalysts protects the NPs from aggregation and also alters their catalytic properties. (Figure presented.).