Efficient Synthesis of α,β ‐Unsaturated Ketones from Primary Alcohols and Ketones over Mg 2+ ‐Modified NiGa Hydrotalcites

A series of Mg 2+ modified NiGa hydrotalcites have been prepared and systematically characterized, and investigated in the aerobic oxidation/ aldol condensation tandem reactions between alcohols and ketones. The results indicated that Mg 2+ in the structure could effectively enhance the surface basicity of the NiGa hydrotalcites, and significantly accelerate the aerobic oxidation/ condensation tandem reactions between aromatic alcohols and ketones. Effects of reaction conditions have been discussed, and the catalytic system exhibited good tolerance for various substrates. A series of controlled experiments proved bifunctional roles of the NiMgGa hydrotalcites in the tandem reaction.