Alkylation of amines with alcohols catalyzed by palladium nanoparticles

Palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) generated in situ from the complex [(dippe)PdMe2] were used as efficient catalyst for the alkylation of amines by aliphatic alcohols using neat conditions, under hydrogen atmosphere. On using short chain alcohols, the reaction resulted in the generation of dialkylated and trialkylated amines in high yields (>80%). The use of bulky alcohols allowed the production of mono-alkylated products, also in high yield.

Graphical abstractThe use of palladium nanoparticles allowed the catalytic alkylation of amines using alcohols as alkylating agents, to yield secondary or tertiary amines with steric control.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Palladium nanoparticles. ► Catalytic alkylation with alcohols. ► Substituted amines. ► Steric control. ► Green chemistry.