Synthesis and Characterization of Zirconia Coated Silica Nanoparticles for Catalytic Reactions

Abstract

Silica nanoparticles and zirconia coated silica nanoparticles were prepared by Stober method.and various subsequent methods. The nanoparticles obtained were characterized by XRD, SEM, EDAX and IR analytical techniques. The XRD study of pure ZrO2 shows well crystalline characteristics with the presence of 100% monoclinic phase. The coated nanoparticles are found to be amorphous in nature. SEM study indicate the particles to possess disorder morphology with the particle are attached to each other through grain boundary to form agglomerated structure. The zirconia coated silica nanoparticles were used as a efficient catalyst for the synthesis of Bis(indolyl) methane under solvent free condition.The Bis(indolyl) methane were obtained with high yield and purity.