Synthesis, characterization, redox behavior and hydrogenation catalytic activity of bis(N-aryl-3,5-Bu2t-salicylaldiminato)palladium(II) complexes

The synthesis, spectroscopic (1H NMR, IR, UV-Vis), electron-transfer properties and catalytic reactivity of new bis(N-aryl-3,5-Bu2t-salicylaldiminato)palladium(II) complexes are presented. Introduction of t-Bu groups on the salicylic ring increases their catalytic activity towards hydrogenation of nitrobenzene in DMF. The oxidation of the complexes with (NH4)2Ce(NO3)6 generates Pd(II)-phenoxyl radical complexes and nitroxide radicals.