Abstract

A series of ALaNb2O7 (A=Cs, Rb, K) layered perovskites were synthesized by solid state method and characterized by XRD and acidity measurements. The catalytic activity of the synthesized perovskites was investigated for the aminolysis of epoxides and the acidity of these perovskites were correlated with their catalytic performance. Of the various perovskites studied, CsLaNb2O7 exhibited good catalytic activity and regioselectivity for the ring opening of epoxides. This is a first example of layered perovskite catalysed ring opening of epoxides that leads to good conversion of epoxides to β-amino alcohols under solvent-free conditions. The perovskite catalysts could be successfully reused with no significant loss in activity.

Keywords: Perovskites, Heterogeneous catalyst, Ring opening of epoxides, β-amino alcohols.