Magnetic nanoparticles supported bromine sources: Catalysis in organic synthesis

Catalysis research under bromine is always a fetching research topic in organic synthesis because a series of reactions such as oxidation and multicomponent reactions readily can be fulfilled in the presence of bromine as catalyst. But, there is a serious problem; bromine is a highly toxic and hazardous liquid material; this material is a very strong irritant that creates painful blisters on exposed skin and especially mucous. In recent times, bromine source immobilized on magnetic nanoparticles has received profound attention because magnetic nanocatalysts (due to their insoluble and paramagnetic nature) can be readily separated from reaction medium by using an external magnet, without the need for filtration, centrifugation or other tedious workup processes. The aim of this review is to highlight the progress in the catalytic application of magnetically recoverable bromine nanocatalysts in various chemical reactions. Stepwise fabrication and characterization of bromine source immobilized on magnetic nanoparticles have been discussed, and their potential to catalyze oxidation and multicomponent reactions evaluated as well.