Use of benzimidazolium salts for in situ generation of palladium catalysts in Heck reactions in water

A new tetramethylene linked bis(benzimidazole) ligand has been obtained by a simple method. The in situ formed catalytic system derived from the benzimidazolium salt and Pd(OAc)2 was used in the Heck reaction between aryl halides and styrene in water. The corresponding Heck products were obtained in good yields.

Tetramethylene linked bis(benzimidazoliım)salts as a ligand were prepared and all compounds showed excellent air and thermal stability at elevated temperature. The in situ formed catalytic system derived from the bis-benzimidazolium salt and Pd(OAc)2 presented a green approach for the Heck reaction with using water as solvent.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Tetramethylene linked bis(benzimidazolium) salts were prepared.
► The in situ formed catalytic system presented a green approach for the Heck reaction.
► This catalytic system showed good activities in a short time and mild conditions.