Iron(III)-catalyzed synthesis of multi-substituted imidazoles via [3+2] cycloaddition reaction of nitroolefins and N-aryl benzamidines

A novel and efficient iron(III)-catalyzed synthesis of multi-substituted imidazoles via [3+2] cycloaddition of nitroolefins and N-aryl benzamidines under the air atmosphere had been developed. This methodology is convenient, atom-economical, general, and eco-friendly in good yields and prefect regioselectivities.