Efficient Gold–Palladium Nanoparticles Stabilized by Poly(amic acid) Salt: Synthesis and Application in Catalytic Oxidation of Amines to Imines.

In this study, gold–palladium nanoparticles (Au–PdNPs) stabilized by poly(amic acid) salt (PAAS) were prepared by a one-pot method and then characterized by transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffractometer (XRD), ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS). The Au–PdNPs which possess bimetallic structures were assessed as an efficient quasi-homogenous catalyst for the oxidation of amines in aqueous phase to prepare imines. Outstanding activity was displayed and a maximum conversion of almost 100% was reached for the oxidative condensation of benzylamine. Synergistic effect between Au and Pd atoms was proved by the catalytic results. The catalyst demonstrated a remarkable stability as it could be recycled for 5 times by taking advantage of pH-sensitivity of PAAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]