Direct Hydrogenation of Biobased Carboxylic Acids Mediated by a Nitrogen-centered Tridentate Phosphine Ligand

A novel nitrogen‐centered tridentate ligand was identified from a series of multidentate ligands and applied for the direct hydrogenation of 9 biogenic acids into alcohols, lactones and esters with high yields. Comparison of substrates and ruthenium precursors suggested that the RuII hydride cationic species was more active to transform acids than the corresponding lactone or esters. Once, twice, three tines a ligand: The exploration of new catalysts is essential for the challenging hydrogenation of carboxylic acids. A novel nitrogen‐centered tridentate ligand is developed using ruthenium precursors. The complexes are used for the hydrogenation of 9 biogenic acids into alcohols, lactones, and esters with high yields.