Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Quinazoline Derivatives Through Visible Light-Driven Photocatalysis Using Curcumin-Sensitized Titanium Dioxide

Abstract

This study explores a sustainable method for synthesizing quinazoline derivatives through visible light-driven photocatalysis using curcumin-sensitized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles. A one-pot, three-component reaction involving aldehydes, urea/thiourea, and dimedone was utilized to efficiently produce quinazoline compounds. The photocatalytic performance of curcumin-sensitized TiO2 (Cur-TiO2) was compared to pure TiO2 (P-TiO2), with Cur-TiO2 showing significantly enhanced activity. Under optimized conditions—light intensity of 100 mW/cm2, catalyst concentration of 1 mg/mL, and a reaction time of 40 min—a 97% product yield was achieved. The Cur-TiO2 catalyst demonstrated excellent reusability, maintaining high efficiency over four consecutive cycles with minimal performance loss. This work underscores the potential of natural dye sensitization to extend light absorption of TiO2 into the visible spectrum, providing an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to sustainable organic synthesis.