Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Ethyl Pyruvate using Layered Double Hydroxides–Supported Nano Noble Metal Catalysts

Abstract

Layered double hydroxide (LDH)–supported nano noble metal heterogeneous catalysts are synthesized by ion exchange of K₂PtCl₆, Na₂PdCl₄ and impregnation of RhCl₃ ^.3H₂O followed by reduction with H₂. The LDH–Rh, Pt, and Pd catalysts are tested in the enantioselective hydrogenation of ethyl pyruvate to ethyl lactate with very good yields and enantiomeric excess's (e.e.'s) of up to 72% were obtained with Pt. The catalyst was recovered and reused for several cycles with consistent activity.

Keywords:

• Cinchonidine
• enantioselective hydrogenation
• ethyl pyruvate
• ethyl lactate LDH–Pt
• Rh, Pd nano particles

Acknowledgments

We thank the CSIR for financial support under the Task Force Project CMM‐0005.