Naturally Nano: Magnetically Separable Nanocomposites from Natural Resources for Advanced Catalytic Applications

Abstract

The present manuscript describes the use of silk cocoons as a structuring agent for the formation of an iron-based active phase for the controlled oxidation of benzyl alcohol. Different samples were prepared using different calcination temperatures. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy showed a higher proportion of alpha-Fe2O3 phase and a higher global crystallinity at superior calcination temperature. In terms of catalytic activity, the sample treated at 500 °C presented the highest conversion reaching 47%, with selectivity in benzaldehyde of 75.9%.