Synthesis, characterization and catalytic activity of sulphonated multi-walled carbon nanotubes as heterogeneous, robust and reusable catalysts for the synthesis of bisphenolic antioxidants under solvent-free conditions

In this study, a simple and green method has been developed for the synthesis of bisphenolic antioxidants by the reaction of 2-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol and aldehydes in the presence of sulphonated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs–SO3H) as heterogeneous, robust and reusable catalysts under solvent-free conditions. MWCNTs–SO3H was prepared and characterized by some microscopic and spectroscopic techniques including scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy. Acidity of the catalyst was measured by acid–base titration. The catalyst was reused several times without efficient loss of its activity for the preparation of bisphenolic antioxidants. In addition, high yields of the products, relatively short reaction times, being solvent-free and non-toxicity of the catalyst are other worthwhile advantages of the present method.