Synthesis of new rhodium(III) complex by benzylic C[sbnd]S bond cleavage of thioether containing NNS donor Schiff base ligand: Investigation of catalytic activity towards transfer hydrogenation of ketones

Abstract

A new rhodium(III)-triphenylphosphine mixed ligand complex, [Rh(PPh3)(L)Cl2] (1) is synthesized by benzylic CS bond cleavage of L-CH2Ph ligand (where, L-CH2Ph = 2-(benzylthio)-N-(pyridin-2-ylmethylene)aniline). The complex is thoroughly characterized by several spectroscopic techniques. Geometry of the complex is confirmed by single crystal X-ray crystallography. Electronic structure, redox properties, absorption and emission properties of the complex were studied. DFT and TDDFT calculations were carried out to interpret the electronic structure and absorption properties of the complex respectively. The synthesized Rh(III) complex was tested as catalyst towards transfer hydrogenation reaction of ketones in iPrOH and an excellent catalytic conversion was observed under mild conditions.