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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

The Synthesis, Characterization and Reactivity of a Series of Ruthenium N-triphosPh Complexes
Published on: April 10, 2015
The combinatorial approach to asymmetric hydrogenation: phosphoramidite libraries, ruthenacycles, and artificial
Johannes G de Vries1, Laurent Lefort
1DSM Research, Life Sciences - Advanced Synthesis, Catalysis & Development, P.O. Box 18, 6160 MD Geleen, The Netherlands. Hans-JG.Vries-de@dsm.com
Abstract:
For a more general implementation of asymmetric catalysis in the production of fine chemicals, the screening for new catalysts and ligands must be dramatically accelerated. This is possible with a high-throughput experimentation (HTE) approach. However, implementation of this technology requires the rapid preparation of libraries of ligands/catalysts and consequently dictates the use of simple ligands that can be readily synthesised in a robot. In this concept article, we describe how the development of new ligands based on monodentate phosphoramidites enabled the development of an integral HTE protocol for asymmetric hydrogenation. This "instant ligand library" protocol makes it possible to synthesise 96 ligands in one day and screen them the next day. Further diversity is possible by using mixtures of monodentate ligands. This concept has already led to an industrial application. Other concepts, still under development, are based on chiral ruthenacycles as new transfer hydrogenation catalysts and the use of enzymes as ligands for transition-metal complexes.
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