Synthesis of imidazole derivatives from β-lapachone and related compounds using microwave and supported reagents

new naphthoimidazoles were prepared by reaction, activated by microwave irradiation, between paraformaldehyde, β-lapachone (or related o-quinones) and ammonium acetate supported on montmorillonite k-10, or on basic alumina. use of the basic support gave the best results, with yields above 80%. this was confirmed for the reaction with β-lapachone and piperonal.