Green synthesis of N-(2-hydroxyethyl)anilines by the selective alkylation reaction in H₂O

Abstract

Based on our previous work, a safer and more sustainable protocol for the synthesis of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)anilines has been developed. The synthesis included the selective alkylation reaction of aniline with 2-chloroethanol in H₂O, eliminating the need for any catalysts and solvents during synthesis. Comparing with our previous work, the salient features of this methodology are eco-friendliness, economic benefit, and the ease of obtaining target compounds. The selective alkylation reaction in H₂O is amenable to scale-up for the synthesis of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)anilines.

Graphical Abstract

A green and efficient alternative way for the industrial synthesis of N-hydroxyethyl anilines was developed, eliminating the need for toxic and expensive catalysts and volatile organic solvents. The selectivity of N-hydroxyethyl anilines obtained in H2O are significantly increased in comparison to those traditional methods.

Keywords:

• Alkylation reaction
• H₂O
• N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)anilines
• selectivity

Additional information

Funding

This work was financially supported by the Excellent Youth Training Program Foundation of Henan Academy of Sciences [200402002].