N-Alkylation of amines through hydrogen borrowing over a heterogeneous Cu catalyst

Substitution of alkylhalides for the synthesis of amines is a relevant target for synthetic chemists. Secondary amines can be obtained in a one pot-one step reaction from secondary and benzylic alcohols and aniline over a heterogeneous copper catalyst. The process does not require any additive, is intrinsically safe and produces no waste. © 2014 The Royal Society of Chemistry.