RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 complex immobilized on reduced graphene oxide for the synthesis of carboxylic acids from alcohol dehydrogenation

For developing high performance of graphene-based nanocatalysts, dispersibility of graphene sheets in matrices and interfacial interaction are challenging due to the strong tendency of agglomeration and surface inertia of graphene. Here we report an efficient way to functionalize graphene nanosheets with 1,4-Diaminobenzene on their surfaces, to attain the functionalized graphene by diazonium treatment following reduction of graphene oxide with hydrazine hydrate. In the following amine-grafted reduced geraphene oxide reacted with 2,4,6-trichloro-1,3,5-triazine and sodium ethanediamine respectively. Finally ruthenium complex RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 immobilized on modified reduced geraphene oxide. Prepared catalyst applied for the synthesis of carboxylic acids from alcohol dehydrogenation for this purpose, catalytic assays were performed in a round bottom flask, using 1 equivalent of alcohol, 1equivalent of cesium carbonate, catalyst and 10 mL of solvent for 24 hours at 100 °C. Yields and conversions were determined by GC analysis.