Cluster chemistry ligand dissociation reactions

Fig. 2.60. Diagram for a probable dissociative mechanism of ligand interchange reactions in M3(CO)9L (M = Ru, Fe) [Darenbourg DJ (1990) In Shriver DF, Kaez HD, Adams RD (eds) The chemistry of metal cluster complexes. VCH New York, p 171]...

The aqueous solution layer that forms at the metal interface can ultimately provide a medium for the dissolution of Pd ions or oxidized Pd clusters into the supported liquid layer where they can then act as homogeneous catalysts. As was discussed earlier, the acetoxylation of ethylene can be carried out over various Pda,OAcj, clusters where alkali metal acetates are typically used as promoters. DFT calculations were carried out on both the Pd2(OAc)2 and Pd3(OAc)e clusters in order to examine the paths that control the solution-phase chemistry. The Pd3(OAc)e cluster is the most stable structure but is known experimentally to react to form the Pd2(OAc)2 dimer and monomer complexes in the presence of alkali metal acetates. The reaction proceeds by the dissociative adsorption of acetic acid to form acetate ligands. Elthylene subsequently inserts into a Pd-acetate bond. The cation is then reduced by the reaction to form the neutral Pd°. The reaction is analogous to the Wacker reaction in which ethylene is oxidized over Pd + to form acetaldehyde. Pd° is subsequently reoxidized by oxygen to form pd2+[35,36,44]... 

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