Solventless oxidative coupling of amines to imines by using transition-metal-free metal-organic frameworks.

A highly efficient, simple, and versatile transition-metal-free metal-organic framework catalytic system is proposed for the oxidative coupling of amines to imines. The catalytic protocol features high activities and selectivities to target products; compatibility with a variety of substrates, including aliphatic amines and secondary amines; and the possibility to efficiently and selectively promote amine cross-coupling reactions. A high stability and recyclability of the catalyst is also observed under the investigated conditions. Insights into the reaction mechanism indicate the formation of a superoxide species able to efficiently promote oxidative couplings.