Magnetically supported ZrO2 nanocatalyst for synthesis of benzimidazoles

Benzimidazole is an important structural moiety which is present in many natural and synthetic compounds with a variety of interesting biological activities, such as anticancer, antiarrhythmic, antihistaminic, antihypertensives, antiviral, antitumor [1]. Recently various methodologies have been used for the synthesis of benzimidazole derivatives[2,3].we have synthesized a magnetic supported ZrO2 nanocatalyst and used as an efficient recyclable catalyst for synthesis of benzimidazoles. The Fe2O3@ZrO2 was conveniently separated from the reaction mixture by an external magnet, and could be reused at least 10 times without any considerable change in catalytic activity. This protocol funished the desired products in good to excellent yields (70-93%) and lower reaction times.