The
present study addresses the challenges in catalytic
transfer
hydrogenation using methanol/ethanol for converting biomass-derived
furanic aldehydes to furfuryl alcohols. The introduction of air-stable
Ru(II)-para-cymene catalysts with imidazole-based
metal–ligand cooperativity represents a significant advancement.
Spectroscopic, in situ monitoring, labeling, and DFT investigations
reveal mechanistic details, highlighting the role of Ru–H generation
through the dehydrogenation of Ru(II)-alkoxide intermediates. Hydride
and proton transfers are facilitated by the interconvertible coordination
mode of imidazole with Ru(II)–para-cymene, which is crucial
for maintaining the catalyst’s efficiency and selectivity.
Notably, the pK
a of the N–H in
coordinated imidazole significantly influences the reactivity, following
a specific order depending on the attached heterocycle: imidazole
> pyridine > thiazole. This order correlates well with the computed
activation barrier for Ru–H generation. The catalyst exhibits
ease of synthesis, stability in air and moisture, use of renewable
hydrogen sources, excellent selectivity for aldehydes, applicability
to various furanic aldehydes, and potential for large-scale processes.
These features collectively contribute to the economic and sustainable
nature of both the catalyst and the protocol, providing a valuable
contribution to the field of catalytic transfer hydrogenation.