Ruthenium-catalyzed alkoxycarbonylation of alkenes using carbon monoxide

Abstract

A novel protocol for ruthenium-catalyzed methoxycarbonylation reaction of alkenes is reported. Using easily available Ru₃(CO)₁₂ as catalyst in the presence of [Bmim]Cl as additive, industrial important esters are produced in yields up to 82%. Compared to traditional olefin carbonylation processes key to success is running the reaction at low carbon monoxide concentration. Notably, the ionic liquid phase which contains the catalyst can be reused for several runs.