Synthesis of dendritic catalysts and application in asymmetric transfer hydrogenation

Frechet-type core-functionalized chiral diamine-based dendritic ligands and hybrid dendritic ligands condensed from polyether wedge and Newkome-type poly(ether-amide) supported multiple ligands were designed and synthesized. The solubility of hybrid dendrimers was found to be finely controlled by the polyether dendron. The catalytic efficiency and recovery use of dendritic ruthenium complexes were compared in the transfer hydrogenation of acetophenone. The core-functionalized dendritic catalysts demonstrated much better recyclability, which verified the stabilizing effects of the bulky polyether wedge on the catalytically active complex. Moreover, the dendritic catalysts were applied in the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of ketones, enones, imine, and activated olefin, and moderate to excellent enantioselectivitiy was achieved comparable to that of monomeric catalysts.