Homologation of Methanol Catalyzed by Mixed Transition Metal Clusters Containing Cobalt

Syntheses of mixed transition metal clusters containing cobalt and their catalytic activities for homologation of methanol were investigated. The reaction of RuCl3 with Na[Co(CO)4] gave a reddish brown complex Na [RuCo3(CO)12]. The cluster easily underwent a cation exchange to give the Cs+ and [Et4N]+ salts. These clusters showed a remarkable catalytic activity for homologation of methanol. The selectivity of ethanol was increased up to 51% in ca. 40% conversion in case of [Et4N]+ salt. Catalytic activities of some other mixed metal clusters were also examined.