Synthesis of Bis(indolyl)methanes Using Fe3O4 Nanoparticle as a Robust, Efficient and Magnetically Recoverable Catalyst Under Solvent-Free Conditions

Abstract

Herein, we described the synthesis of bis(indolyl)methanes from a Friedel-Crafts reaction alkylation between indoles and aldehydes catalyzed by magnetite Fe3O4 nanoparticles (nano-Fe3O4). The reactions were performed under solvent-free conditions and at room temperature, and the catalyst was recovered magnetically. This greener methodology developed are simple and efficient, affording the desired bis(indolyl)methanes in good yields (40-99 %).