Abstract

Chiral organic-inorganic hybrids have been prepared from 1,3,5,7-tetramethylcyclotetrasiloxane (TMCTS), divynilbenzene (DVB) and a natural alkaloid (-)-Cinchonidine (CD). Different CD quantities were inserted into the solid by hydrosilylation reaction using Pt0(2) as catalyst. The obtained solids were used as supports of Ru which was deposited on the carrier from colloidal dispersion of the metal. Catalysts and supports were characterised by using Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy, X- Ray Diffraction, Electron Transmission Microscopy, N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms and X- Ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The catalysts were essayed in the hydrogenation of ethyl pyruvate at 298 K and 40 bar of hydrogen in a Parr-type reactor. The obtained results indicate that the catalytic activity of the hybrid catalysts is rather low and in those catalysts having CD in their structure, is possible to induce chirality towards the enantiomer R-lactate