Production of alcohols via hydroformylation

Abstract

The numerous approaches for the catalytic synthesis of alkyl alcohols using an intermediate hydroformylation step are reviewed. One main strategy is a sequence where hydroformylation and hydrogenation are carried out step by step. More challenging are hydroformylation reactions under reducing conditions. In this regard, the transformation can be assisted by two different catalysts or one single catalyst (tandem reaction). A particular challenge in this respect is the undesired olefin hydrogenation. Sequences where hydroformylation is combined with a subsequent aldol reaction are of huge economic importance. The different performances of the catalytic systems on the basis of rhodium, cobalt, palladium, and ruthenium are described together with typical organic ligands, reaction conditions, and selected applications.