Hafnium(IV) bis(perfluorooctanesulfonyl)imide complex supported on fluorous silica gel catalyzed N-formylation of amines using aqueous formic acid

The treatment of amines with aqueous formic acid in the presence of Hf(NPf2)4 supported on fluorous silica gel brings about highly efficient N-formylation to give the corresponding formamides in high yields. The N-formylation reaction not only involves mild conditions, simple operation, and high yields but also recyclable catalyst.

A very simple, highly efficient and green method for N-formylation of primary and secondary amines in high yield using catalytic FSG-Hf(NPf2)4 in aqueous formic acid is reported.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Fluorous silica gel supported Hf(NPf2)4 was prepared.
► Formamides were synthesized in the presence of FSG-Hf(NPf2)4.
► FSG-Hf(NPf2)4 can be recovered and reused without significant loss of activity.