Use of a Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complex Containing a N∧C∧N-Coordinating Terdentate Ligand as a Catalyst for the α-Alkylation of Ketones and N-Alkylation of Amines with Alcohols.

A cyclometalated iridium(III) complex containing a N∧C∧N-coordinating terdentate ligand [Ir(dpyx-N,C,N)Cl(μ-Cl)]2 was found to be a general and highly effective catalyst for the α-alkylation of ketones and N-alkylation of amines with alcohols. In the presence of catalyst (1 mol % Ir) and base (0.2-0.5 equiv), a variety of desirable products were obtained in good yields under an air atmosphere. Notably, this research exhibited the new potential of Ir(III) complexes bearing non-Cp* ligand and will facilitate the progress of the hydrogen autotransfer process.