Simple and efficient protocol for the synthesis of benzoxazole, benzoimidazole and benzothiazole heterocycles using Fe(III)–Schiff base/SBA-15 as a nanocatalyst

Benzimidazoles, benzoxazoles, and benzothiazoles derivatives were synthesized from condensation of aldehydes and 1,2-phenylenediamine or ortho -aminophenol or ortho -aminothiophenol in the presence of catalytic amount of Fe(III)–Schiff base/SBA-15 in water medium. Short reaction times, good to excellent yields, easy availability, reusability, and use of an eco-friendly catalyst are some of the significant attributes of the present method.