Catalytic application of K2Ce(PO4)2 in Knoevenagel condensation -A green protocol

A framework connected phosphate material K2Ce(PO4)2, explored for the first time for the Knoevenagel condensation of aldehydes with malononitrile in water. The catalyst was prepared by newly developed solid-state method and characterized using XRD, RAMAN, FTIR, BET surface area, TPD, XPS, SEM and HRTEM. The developed protocol showed the substrate compatibility along with the catalyst reusability. Moreover, the catalyst was scaled up to 30 g and also showed reusability. The role of predominant Ce(IV) species was also discussed apart from phosphate basic sites.