Hydrogenation of α-acetamidocinnamic acid with polystyrene-supported rhodium catalysts

Divinylbenzene cross-linked chloromethylated polystyrene has been functionalised with cinchonine, ephedrine, 3S,4S-N-benzylpyrrolidinediol and four achiral amines. The resins have been used as supports for anchoring [Rh(CO)2Cl2]−. The polymer-supported complex has been tested as a catalyst precursor for the hydrogenation of α-acetamidocinnamic acid. Highest rate and modest enantioselectivity are obtained with cinchonine functionalized polymer-supported complex. This complex also undergoes reversible decarbonylation.