What are the Key Applications of Palladium in Catalysis?
Palladium catalysts are employed in various key applications, such as:
Hydrogenation: Palladium catalysts are widely used in the hydrogenation of alkenes, alkynes, and aromatic compounds. This process is critical in the production of fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Cross-Coupling Reactions: The Heck, Suzuki, and Sonogashira reactions are prominent examples where palladium catalysts facilitate the formation of carbon-carbon bonds, enabling the synthesis of complex organic molecules. Oxidation Reactions: Palladium catalysts are used in the selective oxidation of alcohols, alkenes, and other organic substrates, playing a key role in fine chemical and pharmaceutical synthesis.