Asymmetric Hydroformylation of Styrene. The Effects of the Reaction Conditions on the Stereoselectivity

Abstract

Abstract The effects of the reaction conditions on the asymmetric hydroformylation of styrene with rhodium catalysts have been studied. The [α]d value and the configuration of the product, hydratropaaldehyde, were much affected by the phosphine/rhodium ratios, the reaction temperatures (20–110 °C), and the partial pressures of carbon monoxide and hydrogen (10–100 atm). The results were mainly explained in terms of the structures of the catalysts and the skeletal isomerization of acyl complexes. The predominant species of the catalysts and the participation of π-benzyl-type intermediate were also discussed.