Structure and activity in cyclometallated Ru-based Z-selective metathesis catalysts

Abstract

Previously, our group has reported a series of cyclometallated Ru- based Z- selective catalysts, where the N- aryl group was key to the selectivity obsd. Here, systematic variation of the N- aryl group provides insight into the steric and electronic contributions to both activity and selectivity in these catalysts. In addn., an unusual interaction is obsd. between certain substituents of the aryl ring and the alkylidene moiety and this interaction is studied both in soln. and the solid- state. The insights into structure and activity have allowed improved reactivity with a series of hindered olefin substrates.

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