Reductive amination of carboxylic acids under H2 using a heterogeneous Pt–Mo catalyst

Abstract

Reductive amination of carboxylic acids is a green and sustainable method for alkylamine synthesis because carboxylic acids are abundant and accessible carbon sources. Herein, we present an aluminum oxide-supported platinum–molybdenum (Pt–Mo/γ-Al₂O₃) catalyst that enables mild and selective reductive amination of carboxylic acids under H₂. Pt–Mo/γ-Al₂O₃ exhibited high performance even under ambient H₂ pressure. A broad range of carboxylic acids and amines were transformed into alkylamines with good functional group tolerance. Notably, the amination of biomass-derived fatty acids led to the successful formation of the corresponding fatty amines. The catalyst was reusable at least four times without any significant loss in activity. The development of highly active heterogeneous Pt–Mo catalysts with wide applicability and reusability will significantly contribute to sustainable alkylamine production.