Green Synthesis of Ag Nanoparticles Immobilized on Graphene for the Selective Oxidation of Alcohols

In this work, we were synthesized 5%Ag/Graphene nanocomposites via an easy and green route. The as-prepared nanocatalysts were characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX and EDX mapping. The catalytic activity of 5%Ag/Graphene nanocomposite with H2O2 was examined in numerous alcohols oxidation reaction. To achieve the best conversion of the benzyl alcohol, different parameters such as the amount of nanocatalyst, oxidant type, solvent and amount of oxidant were examined. The results showed that the reaction time for alcohols with a substituent in the para position is shorter and a higher conversion of alcohols is obtained with these substrates. This nanocomposite can be efficiently recovered and reused five times without significantly loss in catalytic activity. Recoverability of the nanocatalyst, short time, high conversion, eco-friendly and economical are some advantages of this reaction. A hot filtration test was determined that 5%Ag/graphene nanocomposite operates heterogeneously in the oxidation reaction. Due to the high value of green syntheses in the last decade, we used pomegranate juice as a reducing agent. Pomegranate juice was used not only as a reducing agent but also as a surfactant. On the other hand, hydrogen peroxide was used as a non-toxic and green oxidizing agent.