Vanadium catalyzed direct synthesis of imines from amines or alcohols and amines by an aerobic oxidative reaction under mild conditions

Abstract

The direct synthesis of imines from amines or alcohols and amines by vanadium catalyzed aerobic oxidation was developed. Without an additive or promoter, various symmetrical and unsymmetrical imines were obtained in good to excellent yields under mild conditions with air as an environmentally benign oxidant. The catalyst is very easy to prepare and use, and this catalytic system is also effective for the synthesis of heteroatom-containing imines.