In situ preparation, characterization, magnetic and catalytic studies of surfactant free RGO/FexCo100-x nanocomposites

A novel, "wet" and "clean" methodology was developed to prepare Fe_xCo_100-x nanoparticles on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) surfaces in an aqueous solution through a coreduction process. Without any surface treatment, Fe_xCo_100-x nanoparticles can in situ grow on the RGO sheets. It was found that RGO nanosheets can effectively prevent the aggregation of Fe_xCo_100-x nanoparticles. The results reveal that the RGO/Fe_xCo_100-x nanocomposites have ferromagnetic characteristics and show composition dependent magnetic properties. The effectiveness of the as-prepared RGO/Fe _xCo_100-x nanocomposites as solid phase heterogeneous catalysts have been evaluated, for the first time, on the well-known 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) reduction to 4-aminophenol (4-AP) in the presence of excess sodium borohydride. The effect of initial 4-NP concentration, and catalyst loading dose were evaluated. The catalyst efficiency was examined on the basis of turnover frequency (TOF) and recyclability. The RGO/Fe₂₅Co ₇₅ nanocomposites exhibit good catalytic activity toward 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) reduction and the graphene oxide (GO) supports also enhance the catalytic activity via a synergistic effect. The as-prepared RGO/Fe _xCo_100-x nanocomposite catalysts are very efficient, stable, easy to prepare, eco-friendly, cost-effective, and have potential industrial applications.