Ta(V)-Catalyzed Hydroaminoalkylation of Olefins with Dialkylamines

A direct addition of an amine to non-activated alkenes is an unusual and rare, although highly desirable reaction. Chlorotantalum amide complexes catalyze the hydroaminoalkylation of simple terminal alkenes by secondary ­dialkylamines with high efficiency, providing the branched addition products in excellent yields and selectivities. This is an important step in the development of general methodology of catalytic amination of alkenes, the process of potentially great importance for chemical industry.