Catalytic hydrogenation of 1,3-trans-pentadiene over Rh4(CO)12 supported on γ-Al2O3

Rh₄(CO)₁₂ anchored on γ-Al₂O₃ (Rh₄(CO)₁₂/Al₂O₃) has been studied as a catalyst for the hydrogenation of 1,3-trans-pentadiene. Under mild conditions (1 atm H₂ and temperatures between 60°C and 80°C) hydrogenation occurs at only one of the double bonds of the diene, and analysis of the products shows that the terminal double bond is preferentially hydrogenated. Hydrogenation of the second double bond of the conjugated diene occurring only after all the 1,3-trans-pentadiene has been consumed. In this respect Rh₄(CO)₁₂/Al₂O₃ behaves like toluene solutions of Rh₄(CO)₁₂. Anchoring of Rh₄(CO)₁₂ on the solid support gives a catalyst which is less active but more stable than toluene solutions of Rh₄(CO)₁₂. The effects of CO and of triphenylphosphine on catalytic activity and on specificity of Rh₄(CO)₁₂/Al₂O₃ have also been investigated and both shown to cause a reduction of the rate of hydrogenation of 1,3-trans-pentadiene.