Core- and peripheral-functionalised metallodendrimers for hydroformylation reactions: A review

The use of metallodendrimers in various applications such as catalysis and biology has highlighted the potential for the development of polynuclear metal-based complexes. This review provides a more focused overview of the developments in the application of metallodendrimers as catalysts for the hydroformylation reactions involving olefins. Specific attention is drawn to the influence of these dendritic scaffolds on the activity as well as the chemo- and regioselectivity afforded by the catalyst itself. We furthermore emphasize the recyclability of the rhodium-bearing metallodendrimers via heterogenization of homogeneous catalysts. Recyclable and reusable catalyst precursors are attractive in championing the sustainable use of mineral resources, especially where rare, expensive, and fast-depleting metals such as rhodium are of prime importance.