Bis-N-heterocyclic carbene ruthenium(II) carbonyl complexes: Synthesis, structural characterization and catalytic activities in transfer hydrogenation of ketones

In this contribution, the synthesis and characterization of eight ruthenium(II) carbonyl complexes supported by chelating alkane-bridged bis-N-heterocyclic carbene ligands are reported. The products obtained are analyzed using infrared and NMR spectroscopies. The molecular structures of four metal complexes were determined by X-ray crystallography, which exhibit the six-coordinate octahedral geometry with two carbene carbon atoms from the bidentate Bi-NHCs, two carbonyl groups and two chlorine atoms in the trans(Cl)–cis(CO) configuration. All these complexes show catalytic activities in transfer hydrogenation of ketones.

A series of ruthenium(II) carbonyl complexes bearing bis-N-heterocyclic carbene have been synthesized and characterized. The X-ray structure determination of the four complexes showed the octahedral geometry with a chelating coordination of the bis-NHC. They have been proved to be active catalysts in transfer hydrogenation.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide