Nickel Nanoparticle Catalysis in Organic Transformations

Nickel nanoparticles have emerged as versatile and sustainable catalysts for a wide range of organic transformations, including reduction, hydrogenation, cross-coupling and electrocatalytic processes. At the nanoscale, nickel exhibits unique electronic structures and abundant low-coordination sites that facilitate substrate adsorption and activation. Tailoring particle size, morphology and surface composition enables precise control of activity and selectivity, often rivalling precious-metal counterparts. Through incorporation into diverse supports—such as carbon nanotubes, carbon microspheres or bimetallic frameworks—these catalysts deliver enhanced stability, recyclability and scalability. Applications span environmental remediation of nitroaromatics, synthesis of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals via selective hydrogenation and carbon–carbon bond formation, underscoring the global significance of nickel nanoparticle catalysis as a cost-effective alternative for green chemical manufacturing.

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Nickel Nanoparticle Catalysis in Organic Transformations publication trend

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Technical terms

Nanoparticle: A particle with dimensions in the range of 1–100 nanometres, presenting high surface-to-volume ratios that enhance catalytic activity.

Heterogeneous catalysis: A catalytic process where the catalyst is in a different phase, typically solid, from the reactants, enabling easy separation and reuse.

Support: A material—such as carbon nanotubes, carbon microspheres or metal oxides—used to disperse and stabilise nanoparticles, influencing their morphology and electronic properties.

Electrocatalysis: The acceleration of electrochemical reactions at an electrode surface by a catalyst, crucial for reduction or oxidation steps in organic transformations.

References

1. Enhanced activity for reduction of 4-nitrophenol of Ni/single-walled carbon nanotube prepared by super-growth method. Nanotechnology (2021).
2. Carbon Microsphere-Supported Metallic Nickel Nanoparticles as Novel Heterogeneous Catalysts and Their Application for the Reduction of Nitrophenol. Molecules (2021).
3. Preparation and Electrocatalytic Activity of Bimetallic Ni-Cu Micro- and Nanoparticles. Catalysts (2023).