Catalytic activity of cluster ruthenium complexes: oligomerization of ethylene

Article abstract of DOI:10.1016/0022-328X(93)83018-Q

, one of a series of ruthenium carbonyls tested, shows good catalytic activity in the oligomerization of ethylene in several organic solvents at temperatures above 80 deg C and olefin pressures exceeding 5 atm.Olefin conversions up to 90percent are reached.C4-C12 olefins are the main rection products, with prevalence of the C4 species.Branched isomers are prevalent among the higher oligomers.Evidence has been obtained for a key role for ruthenium hydride intermediates in this catalytic cycle.