Catalytic hydrothiolation of alkenes and alkynes using bimetallic RuRh nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes

Abstract

A heterogeneous nanohybrid catalyst was assembled by immobilization of bimetallic ruthenium–rhodium nanoparticles on carbon nanotubes. The hybrid material was characterized using various techniques evidencing dense coating of the tubes with monodisperse particles. The catalyst was applied to the hydrothiolation of alkenes and alkynes and behaved in a superior manner, compared to the monometallic counterparts. The system proved to be efficient under mild and sustainable conditions (low catalyst loading, room temperature, air atmosphere and green solvent) and could be recycled and reused with no loss of activity.