Z-to-E isomerization processes in reactions catalyzed by cyclometalated ruthenium alkylidenes

Abstract

The Z-content of products generated in reactions catalyzed by adamantyl-activated Z-selective metathesis catalysts is at first very high but degrades at higher conversions. The degree to which this undesirable process occurs is dependent on both the substrate and catalyst structure. Studies of Z-to-E isomerization processes and methods of preventing them are explored. Furthermore, an interesting Fischer carbene species was found to affect these isomerization processes.