Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation with Bis(isonitrile) Complexes
A modular, scalable synthesis of macrocyclic N2P2 ligands allows the preparation of a range of stable, diamagnetic iron catalysts [Fe(CNR)2(N2P2)]2+ that can be further tuned by modifying the ancillary isonitrile ligands. These complexes are highly active and enantioselective catalysts in the transfer hydrogenation of polar double bonds and achieve up to 99.9% yield and 99.6% ee. The tunability of these catalysts makes the optimization for any desired substrate fast and straightforward.
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