POLY(STYRYL)BIPYRIDINEPALLADIUM COMPLEXES AS HETEROGENEOUS CATALYST FOR HYDROGENATION OF ALKENES AND ALKYNES

Poly(styryl)bipyridinepalladium(II) acetate is a useful catalyst for the hydrogenation of alkenes and alkynes though differing selectivity is observed in the two reactions. More substituted or sterically bulky olefins appear to be reduced less rapidly than less hindered olefins, while there are only relatively minor differences in the rate of hydrogenation of a variety of alkynes. Alkynes are reduced preferentially to the alkenes, and the resulting alkenes can be obtained in good yield without significant isomerization if the reaction is stopped after consumption of 1 equiv of hydrogen. In each case examined the consumption of the first equivalent of hydrogen is indicated by a significant change in rate of hydrogen consumption. This rate change appears to be unique for the use of catalysts based on polystyrene-2% divinylbenzene copolymer. © 1979, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.