Utilization of renewable formic acid from lignocellulosic biomass for the selective hydrogenation and/or N-methylation

Lignocellulosic biomass is one of the most abundant renewable sources in nature. Herein, we have developed the utilization of renewable formic acid from lignocellulosic biomass as a hydrogen source and a carbon source for the selective hydrogenation and further N-methylation of various quinolines and the derivatives, various indoles under mild conditions in high efficiencies. N-methylation of various anilines is also developed. Mechanistic studies indicate that the hydrogenation occurs via a transfer hydrogenation pathway.

Automated summary

Utilizing renewable formic acid from lignocellulosic biomass as a hydrogen and carbon source, selective hydrogenation and N-methylation of various quinolines, indoles, and anilines were achieved under mild conditions with high efficiencies. Mechanistic studies revealed that the hydrogenation proceeds through a transfer hydrogenation pathway.