Synthesis of highly loaded and well dispersed CuO/SBA-15 via an ultrasonic post-grafting method and its application as a catalyst for the direct hydroxylation of benzene to phenol.

Highlights: [•] A novel ultrasonic post-grafting method has been developed. [•] A reusable CuO/SBA-15 catalyst with high copper loading and good dispersion has been synthesized and characterized. [•] Direct hydroxylation of benzene to phenol has been carried out with the CuO/SBA-15 catalyst. [•] The obtained catalyst exhibits high catalytic activity and recyclability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]