MoS2 decorated CdS composite catalyst for photoredox-mediated C–N coupling of amines to imines and hydrogen production

Simultaneous utilization of photogenerated electrons and holes within a photoredox system enables effective hydrogen (H 2 ) production and organic synthesis, aligning with eco-friendly chemistry principles and current energy challenges. Here, we report the preparation and application of cocatalyst MoS 2 decorated CdS (MoS 2 CdS) composites for the photoredox-mediated C–N coupling of amines to imines and H 2 generation under visible light illumination. The H 2 and N-benzylidenebenzylamine yields for the optimal MoS 2 CdS are 28.9 and 15.0 times higher than those of bare CdS, respectively. Mechanism studies reveal that the enhanced photocatalytic activity results from the MoS 2 acting as an electron sink, which accelerates the separation and migration of photogenerated charge carriers. Additionally, the pH(•CH)NH 2 intermediates are found to play a pivotal role in the dehydrogenative coupling of benzylamine. Furthermore, the MoS 2 CdS composites exhibit universal applicability in the conversion of various aromatic amines into corresponding imines integrated with H 2 evolution.