Nano ZnO promoted synthesis of 1,3-oxazoline-2-thione derivatives

The synthesis of 2-thioxo-1,3-oxazoles in the presence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs, ca 21 nm) and under solvent-free conditions has been achieved through reaction of ammonium thiocyanate, acid chlorides, phenacyl bromide or its derivatives, and a catalytic amount of N-methylimidazole. The catalyst was recycled and reused six times with minor decrease in its catalytic activity. High yields, simple experimental procedure and short reaction times are advantages of this reaction.