Synthesis, characterization and hydroformylation catalytic activity of a water-soluble RhCl(CO)(PySO3Na)2 complex using 1-hexene and real naphtha

Abstract

In this work, we describe the synthesis and characterization of a new water soluble [RhCl(CO)(PySO3Na)2], complex (1); where [PySO3Na] is the sodium salt of p-sulfonated pyridine ligand. Complex (1) was obtained in methanol, reacting the dried sodium salt of p-sulfonated pyridine ligand with [Rh(Cl)(CO)2]2 complex under inert atmosphere. Complex (1) was characterized by FT-IR and 1H NMR techniques. Complex (1) was active in the catalytic hydroformylation of 1-hexene and real naphtha in a biphasic (water/toluene) system. The effects of reaction time, temperature and syngas pressure were studied with 1-hexene as a substrate. Formation of metallic particles was tested with a mercury drop trial, giving negative results. Reuse of the aqueous phase for several times under the same conditions showed little catalytic activity loss. Complex (1) was active for the hydroformylation reaction of 1-hexene, in the presence of thiophene compounds, showing better performance in comparison with water soluble rhodium analogues.