Construction of C═N/C─N Bonds From N 2 Driven by Sheath Electric Field at Nonaqueous Microdroplet Interfaces
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Conventional imine synthesis relies on amine feedstocks as the nitrogen source, often requiring specific functional groups and harsh reaction conditions. Herein, we report a synergistic plasma‐nonaqueous‐microdroplet platform for the one‐step, catalyst‐free synthesis of imines directly from N 2 and hydrocarbons. Reaction kinetics are significantly enhanced by a sheath electric field generated at the interface between the plasma and the neutral nonaqueous microdroplets. This interfacial electric field facilitates the activation of alkane C─H bonds and insertion of nitrogen cations. C═N bond formation proceeds with exceptional selectivity, yielding primary ketimines (>99% in pure N 2 and 80% in air). Subsequently, the C(sp 3 )─H bonds of alkylbenzenes are selectively activated to form C(sp 3 )─N═C(sp 2 ) linkages, controllably yielding valuable platform molecules of Schiff bases/secondary ketimines. Combined experimental and theoretical investigations elucidate the mechanism of this N‐cation‐mediated C─H activation at the molecular level. This work establishes an atom‐efficient and sustainable route for imine synthesis, demonstrating a broadly applicable pathway for N 2 fixation and C─H bond activation under mild conditions across a diverse substrate scope.
Source: ChemSusChem
DOI: 10.1002/cssc.70986
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7203728149