Application of ruthenium complexes of triazole-containing tridentate ligands to asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of ketones.

The synthesis of a series of tridentate ligands based on a homochiral 1,2-diamine structure attached to a triazole group and their subsequent applications to the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of ketones are described. In the best cases, alcohols of up to 93% ee were obtained. Although base is not required, the use of Ru(3)(CO)(12) as metal source is essential, indicating a unique mechanism for the formation of the active catalyst.