The direct hydrogenation reduction of aromatic nitro compounds to aromatic amines with non-noble metals is an attractive area. Herein, the pyrolysis of Co(2-methylimidazole)2 metal–organic framework successfully produces a magnetic Co–N/C nanocomposite, which exhibits a porous structure with a high specific area and uniform Co nanoparticle distribution in nitrogen-doped graphite. In addition, the Co–N/C catalysts possess high cobalt content (23%) with highly active β-Co as the main existing form and high nitrogen content (3%). These interesting characteristics endow the Co–N/C nanocomposite with excellent catalytic activity for the hydrogenation reduction of nitro compounds under mild conditions. In addition, the obtained Co–N/C nanocomposites possess a broad substrate scope and good cycle stability for the reduction of halogen-substituted or carbonyl substituted phenyl nitrates.
