Green Nanocatalysts in Organic Synthesis

The recent international scenario highlights the importance to change synthetic methodologies toward a greener aspect. This involves also catalysis, and in particular nanocatalysis, in which the catalytic specie is nanostructured. In this context, synthetic organic chemistry developed new strategies in order to decrease the environmental impact of synthetic processes, leading to a sustainable chemistry. The strategies used consist of the realization of catalysts as nanoreactors, self-assembled, or covalently assembled, able to catalyze reaction inside a new nanospace, similar to the catalytic site of enzymes, or on the shell covered by the catalyst. The main goals of this approach is (i) to obtain an easier recovery of the catalyst; (ii) to increase the stability of the catalyst; (iii) to reduce the reaction time; and (iv) to lead the formation of the products in high yield.