Water-soluble carbene complexes as catalysts for the hydrogenation of acetophenone under hydrogen pressure

The synthesis of water-soluble Rh(I), Ir(I), and Ru(II) N-heterocyclic carbene complexes is described. These complexes are applied as catalysts for aqueous phase hydrogenation reactions. Good hydrogenation activities under ca. 40 atm pressure H2 at room temperature are observed.

Water-soluble Rh(I), Ir(I), and Ru(II) N-heterocyclic carbene complexes can be easily synthesized and are utilized as catalysts for aqueous phase hydrogenation reactions. Hydrogenation activities at ca. 40 atm pressure H2 at room temperature are somewhat better when isolated complexes are applied instead of in situ generated catalysts.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Water-soluble NHC complexes of Rh, Ir, Ru can easily be prepared.
► They show reasonable activities at ca. 40 atm hydrogen pressure.
► Isolated compounds appear to lead to better yield than in situ generated catalysts.