PEG-400 as an efficient and recyclable reaction medium for the synthesis of 2-aryl-2-methyl-4,5-diphenyl-2,3- dihydro-2H-imidazoles

ABSTRACT

A productive natural method has been produced for the synthesis of 2-aryl-2-methyl-4,5-diphenyl-2,3-dihydro-2H-imidazoles in great yields under catalyst free-conditions utilizing polyethylene glycol (PEG-400) as a green reaction medium. The highlights of this new method are shorter reaction times, good yields, room temperature, and use of nontoxic, inexpensive, and recyclable PEG-400.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Acetophenone
• 2-aryl-2-methyl-4,5-diphenyl-2,3-dihydro-2H-imidazoles
• benzil
• green chemistry
• MCR
• polyethylene glycol (PEG-400)

Acknowledgment

We thank the director of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)–Indian Institute of Chemical Technology for the generous support.