Abstract

The synthesis of 2,4,5-triaryl-1H-imidazole derivatives has been achieved efficiently through a straightforward and versatile multicomponent reaction strategy. In this method, Nickel (II) borate acts as a highly effective catalyst in acetone medium, promoting the one-pot condensation of a 1,2-dicarbonyl compound, an aromatic aldehyde, and ammonium acetate, which serves as the in-situ ammonia donor. This catalytic system provides a convenient and environmentally benign alternative to conventional protocols, minimizing the need for harsh reaction conditions or complex purification steps. The reaction proceeds smoothly with good compatibility toward a variety of aromatic aldehydes, thereby furnishing the desired triaryl-imidazole scaffolds in moderate to excellent yields within a relatively short reaction time. The advantages of this methodology include operational simplicity, mild conditions, low cost of catalyst, and reproducibility, making it a practical approach for the synthesis of imidazole-based heterocycles. Such compounds are of significant interest due to their broad applications in medicinal chemistry and materials science.