Graphene–ZnO@SiO2 hybrid: An efficient and solid acid catalyst for synthesis of azlactones under ultrasound irradiation

The central theme of this article is how to explore a novel route to fabricate graphene– ZnO@SiO2 hybrid by a covalent process. The synthesis procedure consists of three-steps: (1) synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles, (2) ZnO nanoparticles modification by tetraethyl orthosilicate and (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane after introduction of amino groups on its surface, (3) the covalent attachment of ZnO@SiO2 onto the graphene surface by the amidation reaction between amino group of ZnO@SiO2 and carboxylic group of graphene. This hybrid was then used as a catalyst for the synthesis of azlactones obtained by Erlenmeyer synthesis from aromatic aldehydes and hippuric acid under the ultrasonic irradiation. The protocol offers advantages in terms of higher yields, short reaction times, mild reaction conditions, and reusability of the catalyst.