A novel strategy to construct supported Pd nanocomposites with synergistically enhanced catalytic performances

We report a facile protocol for the one-pot preparation of monodisperse Pd nanoparticles (NPs) supported on ultrathin NiCl₂ nanosheets (NSs). The effective protocol can be described as in situ reduction–oxidation–assembly to create Pd/NiCl₂ nanocomposites and is applicable for the development of stable yet highly active Pd-based heterogeneous catalysts for organic transformations. The Pd/NiCl₂ composite displayed synergistically enhanced catalytic activity, high stability, and good recyclability for the tested model oxidation reaction. The in situ nucleation and growth of NiCl₂ NS around Pd NPs guaranteed a clean metal–support interface and greatly facilitated the catalytic reaction. This work provides a novel synthesis method for supported Pd nanocomposites suitable for many important applications.