Bio-based and environmental input for transfer hydrogenation using EcoNi(0) catalyst in isopropanol

The transfer hydrogenation of carbonyl compounds into alcohols with isopropanol has emerged as a green alternative to the use of hazardous reducing agents. Ni(O) nanoparticles have been described as an efficient catalyst for this reaction, while their classical preparation is still associated with a number of safety and environmental concerns. Here, we report a sustainable, ecological and straightforward preparation of a biosourced Ni(O) based material, by thermal decomposition of Ni(II) formate made from a Ni hyperaccumulating plant. The resulting catalyst, EcoNi(O), shows high catalytic activity and selectivity for the transfer hydrogenation of carbonyl compounds, including challenging aldehydes. The process seeks to be an incentive for the economic development of phytoextraction. (C) 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.