Polymer-bound metal complexes as catalysts: Synthesis, characterization, reactivity and catalytic activity in E–H bond activation

An account of recent research of our groups is presented, focusing on the preparation of several polystyrene anchored complexes and their use as catalysts in functionalization of alkenes. The procedures for covalently binding the ligands or ligand precursors are outlined, as well as for coordination of the metal ions. Instrumental techniques used for the characterization of the polymer-bound complexes have been highlighted. The heterogenized complexes are used as catalysts for the functionalization of alkenes, namely for oxidative aminations, hydroaminations and several types of oxidations, and results obtained using the catalysts prepared are presented. The main advantages of the use of the prepared supported catalyst are specified, namely their recyclability and their higher activity, also confirmed in many cases by comparison with their homogeneous counterparts. An account of the success in the use of EPR to characterize the VIVO- and CuII-systems is also given.