A facile, one-pot procedure for the formation of benzimidazoles from esters using DABAL-Me3, an air stable source of AlMe3

A convenient, single-step, efficient synthesis of benzimidazoles from esters and diamines is reported. The methodology uses an air stable form of trimethylaluminum referred to as DABAL-Me3 and is compatible with a wide range of functional groups, including acid-sensitive protecting groups.