A Simple and Efficient Synthesis of 12-Aryl-8,9,10,12- tetrahydrobenzo[a]xanthen-11-ones by Mg0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 magnetic nanoparticles

Multi-component reactions (MCRs) have emerged as an important tool for building of diverse and complex organic molecules through carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom bond formations taking place in tandem manner. Particularly, in the last three decades a number of three and four-component reactions have been developed [1]. Xanthene derivatives are very important heterocyclic compounds and have been widely used as dyes fluorescent materials for visualization of bio-molecules and laser technologies due to their useful spectroscopic properties. They have also been reported for their agricultural bactericide activity, photodynamic therapy, anti-flammatory effect and antiviral activity [2,3]. Due to their wide range of applications, these compounds have received a great deal of attention in connection with their synthesis. A number of methods have been developed for the preparation of the xanthenes. A three-component reaction of aldehydes, dimedone, and 2-naphtol was achieved in the presence of Mg0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 MNPs as a heterogeneous catalyst to produce 2-aryl-8,9,10,12-tetrahydro-benzo[a] xanthen-11-one derivatives (scheme 1). Synthesis of 2-aryl-8,9,10,12-tetrahydro-benzo[a] xanthen-11-one derivatives has been reported using Mg0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 MNPs at 100 °C under solvent free conditions. Atom economy, excellent yields in short times, high catalytic activity, recycling of catalyst, and environmental benignity are some of the important features of this method.