Catalytic activity and visible spectroscopy of [Rh(norbornadiene)Cl]2/p-RC6H4)3P system in methanol

Summary The catalytic hydrogenation of hex-1-ene in methanolic solution with Rh(norbornadiene)Cl]₂/(p-RC₆H₄)₃ P (R=H, Me or OMe) systems preparedin situ has been measured. The catalytic activity shows a dependence on the ageing of the catalyst precursor solution in the presence of air. A spectroscopic study (visible region) has been carried out for the system with triphenyl phosphine and shows degradation with the formation of Rh(norbornadiene)PPh₃Cl] as an intermediate. It was demonstrated that the spectral changes and the consequent catalytic activity are due to PPh₃ loss because of the oxygen dissolved in the media.