Copper(II)-Catalyzed Selective Reductive Methylation of Amines with Formic Acid: An Option for Indirect Utilization of CO2.

A copper-catalyzed protocol for reductive methylation of amines and imine with formic acid as a C1 source and phenylsilane as a reductant is reported for the first time, affording the corresponding methylamines in good to excellent yields under mild conditions. This protocol offers an alternative method for indirect utilization of CO2, as formic acid can be readily obtained from hydrogenation of CO2.