Homogeneous hydrogenation is one of the most thoroughly studied fields of
homogeneous catalysis. The results of these studies have proved to be most
important for an understanding of the underlying principles of the activation
of small molecules by transition metal complexes. During the past three decades
homogeneous hydrogenation has found widespread application in organic
chemistry, including the production of important pharmaceuticals, especially
where a sophisticated degree of selectivity is required. This volume presents a
general account of the main principles and applications of homogeneous
hydrogenation by transition metal complexes. Special attention is devoted to
the mechanisms by which these processes occur, and the role of the recently
discovered complexes of molecular hydrogen is described. Sources of hydrogen,
other than H2, are also considered (transfer hydrogenation). The latest
achievements in highly stereoselective hydrogenations have made possible many
new applications in organic synthesis. These applications are documented by
giving details of the reduction of important unsaturated substrates (alkenes,
alkynes, aldehydes and ketones, nitrocompounds, etc.). Hydrogenation in
biphasic and phase transfer catalyzed systems is also described. Finally, a
discussion of the biochemical routes of H2 activation highlights the
similarities and differences in performing hydrogenation in both natural and
synthetic systems. For researchers working in the fields of homogeneous
catalysis, especially in areas such as pharmaceuticals, plastics and fine
chemicals.
