Regioselective hydroformylation of vinyl acetate catalyzed by rhodium complex of naphthyl-based monodentate bulky phosphine and phosphite ligands

The hydroformylation of vinyl acetate was carried out using rhodium complex of naphthyl-based monodentate bulky phosphine and phosphite ligands. All the naphthyl-based ligands favored the formation of desire branched aldehyde. High turnover frequency with excellent regioselectivity to branched aldehyde and high selectivity to aldehyde were observed with bulky phosphite ligands. The effect of partial pressure of CO and H2, concentration of vinyl acetate, stirring rate and solvents on the hydroformylation of vinyl acetate catalyzed by Rh/bulky phosphite were examined precisely in order to improve the catalytic activity and selectivity. In contrast to conventional organic solvents, the significant influence on the activity and selectivity was observed in organic carbonates (‘green’ solvent) particularly in propylene carbonate (PC). The PC/catalyst system could be recycled without significant loss of activity and selectivity.

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► Naphthyl based bulky phosphine and phosphite ligands have been synthesized.
► Nature of ligand and solvent exhibited considerable impact on rate and selectivity.
► Notable TOF and selectivity observed with bulky phosphite in organic carbonates.
► Propylene carbonate allowed easy product separation and catalyst recycling.