Alkene Isomerization Using a Solid Acid as Activator and Support for a Homogeneous Catalyst

A catalysis experiment has been developed that introduces students to catalysis using an air sensitive transition-metal complex and introduces the use of a solid acid as an activator and support for the catalyst. The experiment is based on the Ni[P(OEt)₃]₄–H₂SO₄ alkene isomerization catalyst system, with a solid acid ion exchange resin used in place of H₂SO₄, providing a safer and easier experiment for undergraduate students. The solid acid ion exchange resin activates the Ni[P(OEt)₃]₄ complex and immobilizes the resultant cationic nickel species, which can be characterized in situ by UV–vis spectroscopy. The experiment illustrates how immobilization of reagents and catalysts on solid supports provides the opportunity to develop more environmentally acceptable processes by removing potentially corrosive and toxic reagents or catalysts from solution.