Catalyst-free selective N-formylation and N-methylation of amines using CO2 as a sustainable C1 source

Abstract

We herein describe catalyst-free selective N-formylation and N-methylation of amines using CO₂ as a sustainable C1 source. By tuning the reaction solvent and temperature, the selective synthesis of formamides and methylamines is achieved in good to excellent yields using sodium borohydride (NaBH₄) as a sustainable reductant.