Synthesis and characterization of Ru(II), Rh(III) and Ir(III) complexes of the “Daniphos” ligands and their application in the hydrogen transfer catalysis

The synthesis of arene–ruthenium(II) and C5Me5–rhodium(III) and –iridium(III) complexes of chiral arene-chromium-tricarbonyl-based P∧P and P∧N ligands is described. Three complexes were characterized in the solid state by X-ray structural analysis. The complexes were tested in the catalytic hydrogen transfer reactions as well as in the kinetic resolution of racemic alcohols, where some complexes showed good conversion, but low enantioselectivity.