Copper Oxide Nanoparticles in Ligand-Free Conditions: A Path to Selective Ketone Hydrosilylation

The hydrosilylation of ketones is an essential reaction in organic synthesis, with significant applications in the pharmaceutical and specialty chemical industries. This study explores the use of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles, synthesized via thermal decomposition in the absence of ligands, as catalysts for this reaction. ¹ CuO nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confirming their high purity and well-defined structural and morphological properties. ² Their catalytic activity was evaluated using dimethylphenylsilane as the hydrosilylation agent on various ketone substrates. The reaction products were analyzed by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, including ¹H, ¹³C, and ²⁹Si NMR, to ensure precise structural identification. These results highlight the potential of CuO nanoparticles as efficient, durable, and cost-effective catalysts for hydrosilylation. Ongoing studies aim to optimize reaction conditions and evaluate the recyclability of the catalyst, underscoring its relevance for industrial applications and green chemistry practices.³

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