Selective amination of aryl chlorides catalysed by Ni(PMe3)4.

C,N-coupling reactions of aryl chlorides and aryl amines catalyzed by a nickel catalyst are reported. 17 new amines are synthesized in yields of 57–99%. 2,6-Dichloro substituted imines can be selectively aminated. Both mono- and di-aminated products are obtained. Different substrates and amines are tested to look into the influence of electronic effects and steric hindrance to the reaction. An inexpensive and convenient base, NaOH, is used. It is an efficient way to gain access to new amines and imines.