Effect of solvents on the reduction between Schiff bases and activated aluminum

Zusammenfassung

When benzylidenealkylamines (I) and EtOH are treated with activated Al, a mixt. of benzylalkylamines (II) and N,N'-dialkyl-alpha ,alpha '-diphenylethylenediamines (III) is obtained. The ratio of II and III depends on the initial ratio of I and EtOH. The ratio is relatively independent of time. Diln. with inert solvents (toluene or ligroine) does not alter the ratio. Dioxane and NEt3 favor III.