Electrochemically generated catalyst system with increased specificity and efficiency for olefin metathesis

A facile route for the electrochemical generation of an olefin metathesis catalyst from methylene chloride solution of WCl6 was described. It was found that reductive, oxidative and pulse electrolysis produced the same intermediate. This electrolysis intermediate incorporates olefin into its structure possibly forming a metal–olefin complex, which decomposes into catalytically active metal carbene type species. ESCA, NMR and ESR methods were used to elucidate the structure of the catalyst system. The catalyst was applied in the metathesis of 1-octene and 2-octene without any need for a co-catalyst. Highly specific products with high yields were obtained.