A General Catalyst based on Cobalt‐Core‐shell Nanoparticles for Hydrogenation of N‐Heteroarenes including Pyridines

Herein, we report the synthesis of specific silica supported Co/Co3O4 core-shell based nanoparticles prepared by template synthesis of cobalt-pyromellitic acid on silica and subsequent pyrolysis. The optimal catalyst material allows for general and selective hydrogenation of pyridines, quinolines and other heteroarenes including acridine, phenanthroline, naphthyridine, quinoxaline, imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine, and indole under comparably mild reaction conditions. In addition, recycling of these Co-nanoparticles and their ability for dehydrogenation catalysis are showcased.