Green synthesis of benzimidazole derivatives catalyzed by ionic liquid under microwave irradiation

An efficient synthesis of benzimidazole derivatives from o-phenylene diamine and substituted aromatic aldehyde catalyzed by ionic liquid under microwave irradiation was reported. The synthesis conditions were first optimized by single factor experiments. Then, a central composite design combined with response surface methodology was used to study the most effective factors. Optimal conditions were synthesis time 1 h, the reactant/catalyst molar ratio 1:1:0.200, the temperature 50 °C and the microwave power 500 W. Under optimized conditions, the yields of benzimidazole derivatives were 78.55–97.66 %. This method offered the outstanding advantages, such as faster reaction rate, higher yields, recyclable catalyst, environmental friendliness, and simple workup procedure.