The Ability of NCP@POCl2-x Core-Shell Magnetic Nano-Catalyst for Simultaneous Conversion of Epoxides into Cyanohydrin and α,β-Unsaturated Carboxylic Acid

This paper presents a new environmental, and remarkably efficient heterogeneous magnetic nanocomposite, NCP@POCl2-x (Fe3O4@SiO2@CS@POCl2-x), designed for the regioselective production of cyanide compounds from epoxides using NaCN, subsequently facilitating the synthesis of α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids. The reactions were conducted under mild conditions, demonstrating the catalyst’s remarkable performance with high yields. The presence of POCl2-x and the influence of water and heat facilitated the transformation of epoxides into cyanohydrin and α,β-unsaturated carboxylic acids. Remarkably, the reactions demonstrate excellent regioselectivity, producing clean and quantitative products. NCP@POCl2-x is a heterogeneous magnetic nanocatalyst with a strong magnetic core of Fe3O4 surrounded by chitosan as a green layer and functionalized by the POCl2-x group. This catalyst can be easily separated using external magnetic force. The combination of heterogeneity, magnetic properties, easy recovery, and exceptional performance establishes NCP@POCl2-x as a valuable tool for efficient and selective transformations of epoxides.