Improved process for hydrogenating aldehydes and ketones by employing anionic group VIII metal hydride compositions as hydrogenation catalysts

摘要

A novel class of compounds, anionic Group VIII metal hydrides containing phosphorus, arsenic and antimony organoligands is described, such as potassium tris and bis(triphenylphosphine) ruthenium hydride. The compounds are useful as homogeneous catalysts in the hydrogenation of aldehydes, ketones, olefins or alkynes. Processes for producing the compounds are also described.