Dual Catalysis with an IrIII–AuI Heterodimetallic Complex: Reduction of Nitroarenes by Transfer Hydrogenation using Primary Alcohols

Abstract

A triazolyl-di-ylidene ligand has been used for the preparation of a homodimetallic complex of gold, and a heterodimetallic compound of gold and iridium. Both complexes have been fully characterized and their molecular structures have been determined by means of X-ray diffraction. The catalytic properties of these two complexes have been evaluated in the reduction of nitroarenes by transfer hydrogenation using primary alcohols. The two complexes afford different reaction products; whereas the AuI–AuI catalyst yields a hydroxylamine, the IrIII–AuI complex facilitates the formation of an imine.