# Synthesis of 2-benzyl N-substituted anilines via imine condensation–isoaromatization of (E)-2-arylidene-3-cyclohexenones and primary amines

## TL;DR

A new method to make 2-benzyl N-substituted anilines without catalysts or additives, using a simple and efficient chemical process.

## Contribution

A catalyst-free and additive-free method for synthesizing 2-benzyl N-substituted anilines via imine condensation–isoaromatization.

## Key findings

- The reaction proceeds smoothly through a sequential imine condensation–isoaromatization pathway.
- Anilines are produced in acceptable to high yields under mild conditions.
- The method is simple, scalable, and does not require metal catalysts.

## Abstract

A catalyst- and additive-free synthesis of 2-benzyl N-substituted anilines from (E)-2-arylidene-3-cyclohexenones and primary amines has been reported. The reaction proceeds smoothly through a sequential imine condensation–isoaromatization pathway, affording a series of synthetically useful aniline derivatives in acceptable to high yields. Mild reaction conditions, no requirement of metal catalysts, operational simplicity and the potential for scale-up production are some of the highlighted advantages of this transformation.