Synthesis of Amines by Reductive Amination of Aldehydes and Ketones using Co3O4/NGr@C Catalyst

Heterogenized non-noble metal-based catalysts allow for cost-efficient and environmentally benign hydrogenations. Here, we have developed a straightforward reductive amination methodology using molecular hydrogen in the presence of a Co3O4/NGr@C catalyst system. Various carbonyl compounds were transformed with secondary amines to the corresponding tertiary amines with good to excellent yields and selectivity. The Co3O4/NGr@C catalyst is recycled up to five times without significant loss of activity.