Chromium-catalyzed transfer hydrogenation of aromatic aldehydes facilitated by a simple metal carbonyl complex

We communicate a simple method for the transfer hydrogenation of aromatic aldehydes in i-PrOH effected by the cost-effective and easy-to-handle [Cr(CO)(6)]. The reactions are readily carried in Arflushed tubes without further need of special equipment. Functional groups are widely tolerated and, if desired, the catalytic transformations can be further promoted through the addition of trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO). This paves the way for processing thermo-labile substrates under mild reaction conditions. In addition, the introduced method is suitable for the deuteration of benzyl alcohol derivatives. (C) 2022 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc.

Automated summary

This study presents a simple method for the transfer hydrogenation of aromatic aldehydes in i-PrOH using the cost-effective and easy-to-handle [Cr(CO)(6)] as a catalyst. The reactions can be carried out in normal atmosphere without the need for special equipment, and various functional groups are tolerated. Furthermore, the addition of TMAO can further promote the catalytic transformations. This method is also suitable for processing thermo-labile substrates.