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

New naphthoimidazoles were prepared by reaction, activated by microwave irradiation, between paraformaldehyde, beta-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 beta-lapachone and piperonal.