N,N-Chelate nickel(II) complexes bearing Schiff base ligands as efficient hydrogenation catalysts for amine synthesis

Five N, N-chelate nickel (II) complexes bearing N-(2-pyridinylmethylene)-benzylamine ligands with different substituent groups were synthesized in good yields. The nickel complexes exhibited prominent catalytic efficiency toward amine synthesis from nitro compounds by using NaBH4 or H2 as hydrogen source through two catalytic systems. Various amines with different substituents were obtained in moderate to excellent yields. All substrates with electron-donating and electron-withdrawing properties were tolerated in the two reduction systems. Given the efficient catalytic activity, broad substance scope, and mild reduction conditions, the nickel catalysts have potential applications in industrial production.