This paper reports a new and straightforward technique for the preparation of catalytically active palladium nanoparticle (Pd NPs) supported on the polymer surface derived from virgin polythene (Kaldnes Bio media filter) (Pd/KB nanocomposite). The morphology, structure and composition of Pd/KB nanocomposite were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, EDX and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The as-prepared catalyst presented excellent catalytic activity for the ligand-free oxidative hydroxylation of phenylboronic acid and Suzuki–Miyaura coupling reaction in water and ethanol as green solvents. In addition, the catalyst could be easily separated from the reaction mixture and reused four times with no loss of activity. The advantages of this eco-friendly protocol are using the cheap, clean, and nontoxic precursors, simple reaction setup, high yield of products and elimination of ligand and homogeneous catalysts.
