H–Y zeolite is a versatile heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of β-nitroamines

Heterogeneous aza-Henry reactions of aldimes with nitromethane were examined with zeolites as catalysts. Among the zeolite used, H–Y zeolite showed satisfactory catalytic activity for various aldimines, resulting in corresponding β-nitroamines in good yields. H–Y zeolite also showed the excellent reusability until the 3rd usage without loss of its activity; further, the calcination of deactivated H–Y zeolite allowed it to rejuvenate its catalytic activity. Solid-state 13C MAS NMR revealed the predominant activation of an aldimine into the H–Y zeolite.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (58 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights▶ Heterogeneous aza-Henry reaction can be performed by zeolite catalyst. ▶ H-Y zeolite was found to be a suitable catalyst for this reaction with reliable recyclability and reusability.