Calcined Layered Double Hydroxides: Catalysts for Xanthene, 1,4-Dihydropyridine, and Polyhydroquinoline Derivative Synthesis

This work is generally focused on the synthesis of NiFeTi-layered double hydroxides (LDHs) using a hydrothermal route, which were calcined at various temperatures (varying from 200 to 600 °C). The synthesized materials were physicochemically characterized. X-ray diffraction results revealed the loss of the layered structure on calcination resulting in the formation of layered double oxides (LDOs) or mixed metal oxides, which was also supported by Fourier transform infrared studies. Scanning electron microscopy results also show loss of the layered structure and the creation of LDOs on increasing the temperature. These LDOs were tested as the catalysts for the synthesis of biologically significant xanthene, 1,4-dihydropyridine, and polyhydroquinoline derivatives. Among all, NiFeTi LDH calcined at 600 °C proved to be the best catalyst for the synthesis of these derivative compounds under optimized conditions. The advantages obtained were excellent yields in a lesser reaction time. Stability and reusability were also assessed; the catalyst was stable even after five cycles. Furthermore, the memory effect of the obtained NiFeTi CLDH calcined at 600 °C confirms that the material so formed is a calcined state of LDH itself. High catalytic efficiency, easy fabrication, and recycling ability of NiFeTi CLDH calcined at 600 °C make it a potential catalyst for the synthesis of xanthene, 1,4-dihydropyridine, and polyhydroquinoline derivatives.