Work

Polymer-supported manganese-catalysed transformation of esters and aldehydes to alcohols

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Compared to precious metals, manganese has emerged as a more earth-abundant and potentially safer metal to catalyse important chemical transformations. In contrast to homogeneous Mn catalysts, the use of heterogeneous Mn catalysts, is rare. Herein we describe the preparation of a Mn catalyst supported on a simple phosphine-containing polymer, that efficiently provides alcohols from esters and aldehydes, and facilitates the reduction of amides. Surprisingly, the catalyst gave improved yields upon recycling, which prompted a short study into the structural and oxidative changes of the catalyst using SEM-EDX and XAFS. Breakage of the microspheres and increased Mn oxidation states were observed upon recycling. Ultimately a priming procedure was developed that enabled direct procurement of an active and viable catalyst system.

Source: White Rose Research Online (University of Leeds, The University of Sheffield, University of York)

Authors: WILLANS, CHARLOTTE, FAIRLAMB, IAN JAMES STEWART, LYNAM, JASON MARTIN, O’Donoghue, Benjamin R.

Institution: University of York

Language: English

Topic: Asymmetric Hydrogenation and Catalysis

Subfield: Inorganic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: green