Abstract

A study on the application of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) for the optimization of the process parameters of the preparation of 2,4,5-triphenyl-1H-imidazole over BaSO₄ nanoparticles as catalyst was explored. A threelevel, three-factor, Box–Behnken experimental design has been employed to determine the effects of process parameters namely temperature (20-130 °C), catalyst dosage (0.01-0.5) and initial NH₄OAc concentration (2-4 mmol). The second order mathematical model was developed by regression analysis of the experimental data obtained from 30 runs. Highest yield of product and lowest time of process were obtained at the optimum conditions as: temperature (130 °C), catalyst dosage (0.5 mmol) and NH₄OAc concentration (4 mmol).

Keywords: 2, 4, 5-triphenyl-1H-imidazole, BaSO₄ nanoparticles, Box–Behnken experimental design, response surface methodology.