A simple route is demonstrated for the efficient immobilization of silica with L-(N-alpha-acetylphenylalanine)-ruthenium(III) complex. This catalyst was labelled as RHAPhe-Ru. The Si-29 MAS NMR showed the presence of T-3, T-2, Q(3) and Q(4) silicon centers. The C-13 MAS NMR showed the presence of three chemical shifts consistent with the three carbon atoms of the propyl group. The catalytic performance of RHAPhe-Ru was tested in the esterification of ethyl alcohol. A conversion of 82% was achieved, with 100% selectivity towards ethyl acetate. The catalyst could be regenerated by washing with ethanol and drying at 110 degrees C for 24 h without significant loss in reactivity. (C) 2011 The Institution of Chemical Engineers. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.