Bimetallic Cu–Mn B spinel oxide catalyzed oxidative synthesis of 1,2-disubstituted benzimidazoles from benzyl bromides

Abstract

Cu–Mn B (a heterogeneous catalyst) catalyzed synthesis of 1-benzyl-2-phenyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles is reported. In this reaction, 2-phenyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazoles are found to be the side products. The reported protocol is simple and highly efficient, tolerates a wide variety of substrates and the products were formed in good to excellent yield.