ZnCl2 supported on Fe3O4@SiO2 core-shell act as a nanocatalyst for the synthesis of benzimidazole derivatives

In this work, a simple, rapid and efficient method for the preparation of benzimidazoles from 1,2-phenylenediamine and benz and benz and benz and benz aldehyde derivatives in the presence of Fe3O4@SiO2/ZnCl2 as an efficient green catalyst is reported. Fe3O4@SiO2/ZnCl2 can be easily prepared using a readily available organic compound by simple modification. All reactions are performed in ethanol solvent with high to excellent yields. The method is applicable to aromatic, unsaturated and hetero aromatic aldehydes. The advantages of this method are milder conditions, easy work-up, ethanol solvent conditions and catalyst reusability.