Copper-Catalyzed Aerobic Oxidation of Amines to Imines under Neat Conditions with Low Catalyst Loading

The copper (I)-catalyzed direct synthesis of imines from amines under mild aerobic conditions is described. The method is applicable for the synthesis of various imines from corresponding amines such as benzylic, aliphatic, cyclic secondary, heteroaromatic species and the oxidative condensation of benzylamines with anilines extends the scope of the CuCl catalytic system. Noteworthy, solvent-free procedure, air as a benign oxidant, and the cheap and easy availability of the catalyst are the vital advantages of the method.