Redox-neutral α-C-H bond functionalization of secondary amines with concurrent C-P bond formation/N-alkylation.

Redox-neutral formation of C-P bonds in the α-position of amines was achieved via a process that features a combination of an oxidative α-C-H bond functionalization and a reductive N-alkylation. Benzoic acid functions as an efficient catalyst in this three-component reaction of cyclic secondary amines, aldehydes and phosphine oxides to provide rapid access to α-amino phosphine oxides not easily accessible by classic Kabachnik-Fields reactions.