Copper anchored on phosphorus g-C3N4 as a highly efficient photocatalyst for the synthesis of N-arylpyridin-2-amines

A heterogeneous photocatalyst based on copper modified phosphorus doped g-C3N4 (Cu/P-CN) has been prepared and characterized. This recyclable catalyst exhibited high photocatalytic activity for the synthesis of N-arylpyridin-2-amine derivatives by the reaction of 2-aminopyridine and aryl boronic acid at room temperature under the irradiation of blue light. Importantly, the range of substrates for this coupling reaction has been expanded to include aryl boronic acids with strong electron-withdrawing groups as viable raw materials. In addition, this heterogeneous catalyst can be used at least 6 times while maintaining its catalytic activity.