Rh/TMPGP complex catalyzed hydroformylation of p-isobutylstyrene in thermoregulated PEG biphase system

A series of novel phosphite ligands tri-(methoxyl polyethylene glycol)-phosphite (TMPGP) (1a–1d) have been synthesized and used in the rhodium-catalyzed hydroformylation of p-isobutylstyrene (IBS) in thermoregulated polyethylene glycol (PEG) biphase system. Under the conditions of P = 5.0 MPa (H2:CO = 1:1), P/Rh = 13 (molar ratio), reaction time = 2 h and temperature = 120 °C, the conversion of IBS was 100% and the yield of aldehyde was 96%. The catalyst could be easily separated from the product by phase separation and reused for nine times without evident loss of activity.

A series of novel phosphite ligands tri-(methoxyl polyethylene glycol)-phosphite (TMPGP) have been synthesized and used in the rhodium-catalyzed hydroformylation of p-isobutylstyrene (IBS) in thermoregulated polyethylene glycol (PEG) biphase system. Under the optimum conditions, the conversion of IBS and the yield of aldehyde are 100% and 96%, respectively. In addition, the catalyst could be easily separated from products and efficiently recovered. Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide