Single-Atomic Co–N ₂ O ₂ Sites to Construct Quinazolinone Scaffolds via Tandem Oxidation

The development and screening of non-noble metal-based single-atom catalysts (SACs) are promising protocols in heterogeneous catalysis because of their low cost, maximum atom utilization, stability, reaction efficiency, and reusability. Being aware of this perspective, the present work reveals the fabrication of Co as a single-atom catalyst (Co SAC), precisely coordinated with N and O as Co–N2O2 supported on porous carbon, via a facile pyrolytic synthetic protocol using rice husk as a carbon source and cobalt adeninate metal–organic framework, Bio-MOF-11, as the Co source. Heavily influenced by their size and environment, Co SACs exhibit remarkable catalytic performance, selectivity, and recyclability in the synthesis of quinazolinones and aromatic amines. Based on the XAS investigations, it has been established that the electronic metal–support interaction (EMSI) of Co with N and O atoms moderates the electronic nature of the isolated Co atoms, resulting in improved catalytic activity.