A variety of catalysts can be employed to facilitate reactions involving geraniol:
Metal Catalysts: Metals like palladium, platinum, and ruthenium are often used to catalyze hydrogenation and oxidation reactions. For instance, palladium catalysts can hydrogenate geraniol to produce citronellol, a valuable fragrance compound. Enzymatic Catalysts: Enzymes such as lipases and oxidoreductases offer a more selective and eco-friendly approach to catalysis. Enzymatic oxidation of geraniol can yield geranial and neral, important intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals. Homogeneous Catalysts: Soluble metal complexes and organocatalysts can be employed for selective transformations. For example, rhodium complexes have been used to catalyze the isomerization of geraniol to linalool, another valuable fragrance ingredient.
