PdYb/CeO2 Catalyst for Efficient Hydroaminocarbonylation of Alkenes.

The hydroaminocarbonylation of alkenes is one of the most promising methods for economically utilizing carbon monoxide (CO) to form high-value organic molecules. Here, we reported that a dual-atom catalyst named PdYb/CeO2 was prepared by impregnation method for the one step synthesis of amides from CO, alkenes with amines. Compared with Pd/CeO2, PdYb/CeO2 nearly doubled the amide yield. And the latter exhibited improved chemical selectivity and functional group tolerance toward diverse olefin and amine substrates. Characterization indicated that Pd and Yb species were embedded into the CeO2 support in a doped form. The incorporation of Yb optimized the electronic state of Pd through electronic regulation, which enhanced the catalytic activity. Mechanistic analysis revealed that the Lewis acid activated trace water in this system, providing a hydrogen source for the reaction. This heterogeneous catalytic system avoided the separation challenges of traditional homogeneous catalysts and the dependence on corrosive Brønsted acids, offering a strategy for the development of efficient carbonylation.