Natural bentonite clay/dilute HNO3 (40%): A mild, efficient, and reusable catalyst/reagent system for selective mono nitration and benzylic oxidations

ABSTRACT Selective mono nitration of Aromatic hydrocarbons and benzylic oxidations can be achieved in high yield using reusable catalyst/reagent system consisting of bentonite clay and dilute HNO3 under relatively mild experimental conditions. The dual behavior of the catalyst reagent system is utilized for the regioselective synthesis of a variety of industrially important compounds.