Synthesis of Primary Arylamines by Electrochemical Nickel-Catalyzed Amination of Aryl Halides with NH₃

Keywords

amination - ammonia - anilines - aryl halides - C(sp²)–N coupling - electrochemistry - nickel catalysis

Significance

An electrochemical direct amination of aryl halides using ammonia is reported, providing access to primary arylamines in high yields. The method displays high functional group tolerance, allowing for late-stage functionalization of drug-containing molecules and derivatives (not shown).

Comment

Mechanistic investigations support the proposed catalytic cycle. The use of electrochemistry and elevated temperatures was critical to avoiding the formation of an inert nickel–ammonia complex and to thermodynamically favor the release of ammonia.

Publication History

Article published online:
23 June 2025