Graphene as a Suitable Support for Nickel Nanoparticles Functionalized with NHC Ligands in Dehydrogenation of Alcohols

Abstract In this paper, we describe a bottom‐up synthesis of nickel nanoparticles (NiNPs) functionalized with N ‐heterocyclic carbene ligands and immobilized onto reduce graphene oxide ( rGO ). This tailored synthetic approach provides insights into the physical and chemical factors influencing NiNP formation and properties. The hybrid material (metal nanoparticles + organic ligand + graphene) is prepared starting from a well‐defined nickel complex that is decomposed in a controlled manner providing ligand‐decorated metal nanoparticles under mild conditions. The resulting NiNPs are spherical, with a small average size distribution (3.7 ± 0.9 nm). This hybrid material ( NiNPs/NHC@rGO ) is an efficient catalytic material for the dehydrogenation of alcohols to produce carbonyls with the concomitant release of molecular hydrogen. We explore its catalytic properties, substrate scope, and recyclability. Furthermore, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis reveals the material's evolution over multiple catalytic cycles. The reusability of NiNPs on graphene represents a significant advancement in the design of nickel‐based catalytic materials.