Although a number of symmetrical pincer-type complexes based on <i>N</i>-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) have been studied, unsymmetrical, mixed-donor NHC pincer complexes are far less common. Our previous work with Pd(II) complexes of a pyridine-bridged mixed thioether/NHC (SNC) pincer ligand has demonstrated some unique reactivity patterns endowed by the hybrid, non-innocent ligand system. Expanding upon this work, we now wish to describe the coordination chemistry of our SNC ligand toward Rh(I) and preliminary reactivity studies of the resulting complexes. Specifically, the SNC-Rh complexes described have been found to be efficient catalysts for the transfer hydrogenation (TH) of a variety of ketone and aldehyde substrates. Rate data, reaction optimization, and suggestions for improved ligand design will be discussed.

SNC-Rh(I) pincer complexes bearing thioether and <i>N</i>-heterocyclic carbene donors: Catalytic activity in transfer hydrogenation

249th National Meeting (2015)

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SNC-Rh(I) pincer complexes bearing thioether and N-heterocyclic carbene donors: Catalytic activity in transfer hydrogenation