CO insertion reactions are pivotal in several industrial processes:
- Hydroformylation: This reaction converts alkenes into aldehydes using CO and Hâ, catalyzed by transition metal complexes. It's a key step in producing plasticizers and detergents. - Carbonylation: In the carbonylation of methanol, CO insertion forms acetic acid, a crucial industrial solvent and chemical intermediate. - Polymerization: CO insertion is also involved in the polymerization of olefins, leading to the formation of polyketones, which are useful engineering plastics.
