Base-promoted N-alkylation using formamides as the N-sources in neat water

An efficient catalyst-free, alternative method for the C–N bond formation reaction of alkyl electrophiles using formamides as the N-sources was achieved under mild conditions. The reaction possesses the advantages of a broad range of substrates scope and wide functional group tolerance. It should also be noted that this process was performed using the environmentally benign water as the sole solvent, and high yield can also be achieved in ten-gram scale.