Solventless triarylmethane synthesis via hydroxyalkylation of anisole with benzaldehyde by modified heteropoly acid on mesocellular foam silica (MCF)

Abstract

Triarylmethane (TRAM) compounds have wide applications such as leuco dyes for sensing tumors and other biological activities. Hydroxyalkylation of arenes with benzaldehyde results in formation of triarylmethane compounds. In the present study, 20 (wt.%) Cs2.5H0.5PW12O40 (Cs-DTP) supported on mesocellular foam (MCF) silica was prepared, characterized and tested for its activity in hydroxyalkylation reaction of anisole with benzaldehyde. Its activity was compared with commercial catalysts like Amberlyst-15, montmorillonite clay K-10, H3PW12O40 and unsupported Cs2.5H0.5PW12O40.The prepared catalyst showed the best activity compared to others with advantage of separation of catalyst and reusability. Reaction parameters were studied in detail and kinetic study was carried out for the said reaction. 20 (wt. %) Cs-DTP/MCF was found to be the best, robust and reusable catalyst. Reaction mechanism and kinetics were also studied. The results are new.