Efficient oxidative coupling of amines to imines catalyzed by manganese(III) meso-tetraphenylporphyrin chloride under ambient conditions

Highly efficient oxidative coupling of amines to imines by tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BuOOH) in the presence of metalloporphyrins has been reported. Manganese porphyrin showed excellent activity and selectivity for the oxidative coupling of amines to imines under ambient conditions. Moreover, a plausible mechanism involving high valence oxo intermediate has been proposed.

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► Highly efficient oxidative coupling of amines to imines catalyzed by metalloporphyrins.
► Manganese porphyrins showed excellent activity even with very low amount (0.03 mol%, based on substrate).
► A reaction mechanism involves high-valent oxo and aldehyde intermediates was proposed and verified by experimental and theoretical calculation.