Metal–organic framework mediated expeditious synthesis of benzimidazole and benzothiazole derivatives through an oxidative cyclization pathway

Herein, we report the facile synthesis of various benzimidazoles and benzothiazoles by using the NH2-MIL-125(Ti) MOF as an efficient oxidant-free heterogeneous catalyst with good yield. Adsorption of the substrate on the NH2-MIL-125(Ti) MOF surface through electron deficient Ti4+ sites initiates the reaction. The broad substrate scope and high reusability of this catalyst are attractive for synthesis of a wide range of medicinally active benzimidazole and benzothiazole derivatives.