FeCl3-SiO2 as a reusable heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazoles via [2+3] cycloaddition of nitriles and sodium azide

An efficient method for the preparation of 5-substituted 1H-tetrazole derivatives is reported using FeCl3-SiO2 as an effective heterogeneous catalyst. This method has the advantages of high yields, simple methodology, and easy work-up. The catalyst can be recovered by simple filtration and reused delivering good yields.