Ru(III) complex anchored onto amino-functionalized MIL-101(Cr) framework via post-synthetic modification: an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for ring opening of epoxides

In this work, the metallo Schiff base-functionalized metal–organic framework was prepared by post-synthetic method and used as an electron-deficient catalyst for the alcoholysis of epoxides. In this manner, the aminated MIL-101 was modified with 2-pyridine carboxaldehyde and then the prepared Schiff base reacted with RuCl₃. This new catalyst, MIL-101–NH₂–PC–Ru, was characterized by Fourier transform infrared, UV–Vis spectroscopic techniques, X-ray diffraction, BET, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. In the presence of this heterogeneous catalyst, ring opening of epoxides was performed under mild condition to show the significant ability and successful applications of Lewis acid containing catalysts in corporation with metal–organic frameworks. The reusability of the catalyst was also investigated. No noticeable decrease in the catalytic activity was found after four consecutive times.