Ru catalyzed formylation of diethylamine with CO₂ and H₂ under moderate pressure condition

Ru catalyzed formylation of diethylamine (bulky secondary amine) with CO₂ and H₂ has been investigated using a series of phosphine ligands. Significant influence on the catalyst activity and selectivity is observed with bidentate phosphine ligands. The Ru catalyst with the ligand, 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)benzene exhibits the highest catalyst performance (TON up to 2475). The high conversion (99%) and high selectivity to the corresponding formamide (up to 90-98%) is achieved at 150 °C and moderate pressure conditions. The effects of temperature, concentration of diethylamine and partial pressure of CO₂ and H₂ on the formylation of diethyl amine catalyzed have been examined in order to improve the catalytic activity and selectivity.