Sulfonated polystyrene/montmorillonite nanocomposite as a new and efficient catalyst for the solvent-free Mannich reaction

Sulfonated polystyrene/montmorillonite nanocomposite (OMMT/PS-SO3H) was prepared and used as a novel, efficient and inexpensive heterogeneous acid catalyst in the one-pot reaction three-component Mannich reaction of ketones, aromatic aldehydes and amines under solvent-free conditions. The catalyst was characterized by XRD, SEM, TG, BET and FT-IR techniques. This method has advantages of high yield, moderate to excellent diasteroselectivity, mild condition, catalyst recyclability, and simple work-up procedure.