An Efficient and Selective Nickel-Catalyzed Direct N-Alkylation of Anilines with Alcohols

Abstract

Herein, we developed an efficient and selective nickel-catalyzed monoalkylation of various primary alcohols with aryl and heteroaryl amines together with diols and amino alcohol derivatives. Notably, the catalytic protocol consisting of an earth-abundant and non-precious NiBr2/L1 system enables the transformations in the presence of hydroxyl, alkene, nitrile, and nitro functionalities. As a highlight, we have demonstrated the alkylation of diamine, intramolecular cyclization to N-heterocycles, and functionalization of complex vitamin E, an (±)-α-tocopherol derivative. Preliminary mechanistic studies revealed the participation of a benzylic C–H bond in the rate-determining step.