Organometallic catalysts in synthetic organic chemistry: From reactions in aqueous media to gold catalysis

Abstract

Water has attracted significant attention as an alternative solvent for transition-metal-catalyzed reactions. The use of water as solvent allows simplified procedures for separation of the catalyst from the products and recycling of the catalyst. Water is an inexpensive reagent for the formation of oxygen-containing products such as alcohols. The use of water as a medium for promoting organometallic and organic reactions is also of great potential. This chapter will focus on old and recent developments in the design and applications of some catalytic reactions using aqueous-phase Pd, Rh, Pt, and Au complexes. © 2008 IUPAC.