Tin exchanged zeolite as catalyst for direct synthesis of α-amino nitriles under solvent-free conditions

Sn exchanged HBeta zeolite was prepared and characterized by PXRD, surface area, TPD and TEM analysis. The Sn exchanged zeolite was found to be highly efficient catalyst for the direct synthesis of α-amino nitrile from various ketones and aldehydes with amine and trimethyl silylcyanide (TMSCN) under solvent-free condition. Excellent yield of α-amino nitrile (up to 96%) was achieved within 10–120 min at room temperature. The Sn exchanged HBeta zeolite was recovered and reused several times without the loss of its catalytic performance.

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► The catalyst Sn-exchanged HBeta zeolite was synthesized by ion-exchange method.
► The catalyst was effectively used in the Strecker reaction of aldehydes and ketones.
► The product α-Amino nitriles were achieved in high yield (∼96%) in 10–120 min.
► The present protocol uses safer cyanating agent under solvent free condition.
► The catalyst Sn-exchanged zeolite is recycled several times successfully.