Selective debenzylation of 1-benzyloxy-4-methoxy benzene over 5-sulfosalicylic acid-functionalized ordered mesoporous silica (SBA-15/SFSA) catalyst

5-Sulfosalicylic acid (SFSA) functionalized mesoporous silica nanocomposites (SBA/APTS/SFSA) were synthesized by post grafting technique for selective debenzylation of 1-benzyloxy-4-methoxy benzene. The uniform incorporation of SFSA inside the mesoporous SBA-15 framework was confirmed by standard characterization techniques (PXRD, adsorption studies, FT-IR, etc.). Total surface area, pore size and pore volume of the SBA/APTS/SFSA catalysts decreased with increase in the concentration of SFSA confirming the uniform insertion of SFSA into mesoporous SBA-15 matrix. Catalytic activity studies showed highest conversion and selectivity of the desired product on SBA/APTS/SFSA catalyst compared to homogeneous SFSA and other solid support (Al₂O₃ and SiO₂). All the reaction parameters such as reaction time, reaction temperature and catalyst weight were optimized under environmental friendly conditions. Finally, the possible mechanism of the reaction was explained. .