Selective cis -Isomerization of 1-Pentene Catalyzed by Ni(I)-Triphenylphosphine Complexes

Abstract

Selective cis-isomerization of 1-pentene was carried out by NiX(PPh3)3 (X=halogen and pseudohalogen). First-order plots were obtained except for the iodo-complex. The addition of tin(II) chloride increased both activities and ratios of cis-2-pentene to the trans-isomer. Protic solvents accelerated the isomerization. Isotopic exchange between C2D4 and C2H4 or 1-pentene reveals that a metal hydride addition-elimination mechanism is operative.