Ruthenium/Imidazolylphosphine Catalysis: Hydrogenation of Aliphatic and Aromatic Nitriles to Form Amines.

A convenient and efficient catalyst system for the hydrogenation of aliphatic nitriles towards the corresponding primary amines in high to excellent yields is presented. In addition, aromatic nitriles are reduced smoothly, too. The use of low catalyst loadings and molecular hydrogen make this protocol an attractive methodology.