Synthesis, characterization, and use of nanocast LaMnO3 perovskites in the catalytic production of imine by the gas-phase oxidative coupling of benzyl alcohol to aniline

We report here a green methodology for the synthesis of imine from a gas-phase oxidative coupling of benzyl alcohol to aniline in a continuous-flow system. These reactions were performed using LaMNO3 perovskites as heterogeneous catalysts. The catalytic performance of these materials was 98% and remained stable for 8 h of reaction. The prepared catalysts were successfully regenerated and reused in five successive catalytic cycles. No organic solvents were used in this process, which represents an important advantage in terms of the environment, simplicity, and safety. Moreover, this approach reduces the need for subsequent physicochemical extraction and purification steps.