Prussian Blue Analogue Derived N-Doped Graphitic Carbon Wrapped Iron-Cobalt Nanoparticles as Recyclable Heterogeneous Catalysts for Friedel-Crafts Acylation

The rational design of efficient heterogeneous catalysts for Friedel-Crafts acylation reactions is highly desirable for meeting the need for the industrial production of various aromatic ketone compounds and biomass-derived chemicals. Herein, we reported that graphitic carbon wrapped FeCo bimetallic nanoparticles confined in nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes, which were prepared by pyrolysis of FeCo-based Prussian blue analogue and melamine via a two-stage programmed heating procedure, exhibited excellent catalytic activity and recyclability for the acylation of aromatic compounds with acyl chlorides. The oxidized bimetallic species embedded in the external graphitic carbon shell should be the main active sites for the acylation reaction. The graphitic carbon shell and the carbon nanotube could provide effective protection on the active metal species against leaching through multiple interactions, leading to the formation of a highly active and durable heterogeneous catalyst for the acylation reaction.