Cu(II)–Schiff base complex‐functionalized magnetic Fe3O4 nanoparticles: a heterogeneous catalyst for various oxidation reactions

Cu(II)–Schiff base complex‐functionalized magnetic Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were prepared and characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy techniques. This compound acts as a highly active and selective catalyst for the oxidation of sulfides and thiols. These reactions can be carried out in ethanol or solvent‐free conditions in the presence of hydrogen peroxide with complete selectivity and very high conversion under mild reaction conditions. The designed catalytic system prevents effectively the over‐oxidation of sulfides to sulfones. Separation and recycling can also be easily done using a simple magnetic separation process. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.