Direct one-pot synthesis of imines/benzothiazoles/benzoxazoles from nitroarenes via sequential hydrogenation-condensation using Nano-NiFe2O4 as catalyst under microwave irradiation

Abstract Here, we have reported, nano-NiFe2O4–catalyzed direct synthesis of imines/benzothiazoles/benzoxazoles via cascade hydrogenation of nitroarenes followed by condensation of aromatic aldehydes under microwave (MW) irradiation conditions. The NiFe2O4 NPs were very effective in selective reduction of nitro-aromatic compounds to amines. The reactions under MW irradiation conditions added advantages of faster reaction rate (15 ​min), high yields of the products (87–95%). Further, one-pot procedure, use of reusable and robust nano-NiFe2O4 as catalyst are the major advantages of the present protocol.