Acrylic acid catalysts, iridium complexes

Brunner, Leitner and others have reported the enantioselective transfer hydrogenation of alpha-, beta-unsaturated alkenes of the acrylate type [50]. The catalysts are usually rhodium phosphine-based and the reductant is formic acid or salts. The rates of reduction of alkenes using rhodium and iridium diamine complexes is modest [87]. An example of this reaction is shown in Figure 35.8. Williams has shown the transfer hydrogenation of alkenes such as indene and styrene using IPA [88]. 

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