N-alkylation of amines with alcohols over alumina-entrapped Ag catalysts using the “borrowing hydrogen” methodology

► N-alkylation of amines by alcohols via borrowing hydrogen methodology. ► Highly efficient catalysis by alumina-entrapped Ag nanoparticles. ► N-alkylation of aniline gives >99% selectivity to secondary amines. ► Applicable to various aromatic and linear alcohols. ► Process does not require external hydrogen.