Microwave-promoted solventless Mizoroki-Heck reactions catalysed by Pd nanoparticles supported on laponite clayElectronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4ra15418e

A new family of solid catalysts has been prepared by supporting palladium nanoparticles on a synthetic clay (laponite) using a straightforward and robust procedure. These solids have been used as catalysts in a Mizoroki-Heck reaction, in solventless conditions, activated by microwave radiation. Complete conversions and high product yields can be obtained in a few minutes, and the catalyst can be efficiently recovered by extracting reaction products in essentially pure form. In the best cases, catalysts can be used up to thirteen times with good results. Palladium nanoparticles supported on laponite efficiently catalyse solventless Mizoroki-Heck reactions activated by microwaves. High yields are obtained in a few minutes and the catalyst can be efficiently recovered and reused up to thirteen times.