Ruthenium(<scp>ii</scp>) complexes of pyridinol and N-heterocyclic carbene derived pincers as robust catalysts for selective carbon dioxide reduction

Abstract

A new pincer ligand with N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) and 4-pyridinol-derived rings supports ruthenium complexes for photocatalytic CO₂ reduction. The methoxy group on the pyridine ring offers unique catalysis advantages not seen with the unsubstituted analog. Our best catalyst offers selective CO formation, ∼250 turnover cycles, and a 40 h lifetime.