One-pot synthesis of spirooxindole derivatives catalyzed by ZnFe2O4 as a magnetic nanoparticles

ZnFe2O4 as a novel nanoparticle was prepared and characterized using x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, energy dispersive x-ray (EDX), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), and fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectra. Then, it is used one-pot three-components synthesis of spirooxindole derivatives via condensation of isatin, malononitrile, and 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds (1,3-cyclohexanedione) under mild reaction conditions in water as a green solvent. The present methodology offers several advantages, including ease of the preparation and handling of the catalyst, simple and easy work-up, short reaction times, high yields of the products and recyclability of the catalyst.