Catalytic Hydrogenation of Alkenes Using Zirconocene–Alkene Complexes

Hydrogenation reactions of alkenes were catalyzed by zirconium–alkene complex derivatives which were prepared from Cp2ZrCl2 (Cp = η5-C5H5) and n equiv. of RR′CHCH2M (M = MgX or Li). By the use of three or more equiv. of EtMgBr relative to Cp2ZrCl2, the product yield of hydrogenation of 1-decene was remarkably improved most likely due to the stabilization of the Zr(II) species.