Catalytic olefin hydrogenation with the application of a new water soluble rhodium catalyst

The catalyst precursor preparedin situ from rhodium dimer [Rh(cod)Cl]₂ and a new water-soluble phosphine Ph₂PCH₂CH₂CONHC(CH₃)₂CH₂SO₃H (in Li⁺ salt form) has been found to act as an effective olefin hydrogenation catalyst. Catalytic hydrogenation reactions have been tested in either two phase: aqueous catalyst/insoluble olefin or methanolic catalyst/olefin systems. The observed reaction rates were higher for terminal than for internal olefins. 1-Hexene in methanolic solution has been hydrogenated with a turnover frequency of about 8000 h^–1. This system has also been applied in the form of a supported aqueous phase catalyst.