What Is the Nitro-Grela(GRELA 2nd Generation） Catalyst ? — Mechanism, Advantages & Applications

 

As a catalysis specialist with over 12 years of experience in organometallic chemistry, this article rigorously examines What Is the
Nitro-Grela(GRELA 2nd Generation,CAS：502964525) Catalyst, You’ll find detailed insights into its molecular design, catalytic mechanism, key performance metrics, realworld applications, safety measures — and even direct quotes from peerreviewed sources.

1. Overview of Nitro-Grela(GRELA 2nd Generation)

Chemical Name：Grela 2nd Generation

CAS Number: 502964525

Molecular Formula: C31H36Cl2N3O3Ru

Appearance: Grean

Melting point：>300 °C

storage temp：2–8°C

Form：Powder

Development Background: An evolution of the Hoveyda–Grubbs firstgeneration catalyst, GRELA 2 has an isopropoxyphosphonate ligand that enhances reactivity toward polar substrates and improves overall stability.

2. Structure & Catalytic Mechanism

Ruthenium Core

Central Ru(II) binds to a carbene, forming the active species that mediates olefin metathesis.

Specialized Ligand

The isopropoxyphosphonate chelating ligand stabilizes the metal center in polar aprotic solvents, reducing ligand dissociation energy.

Active Carbene Generation

Under mild conditions (room temperature to slight heating), the phosphonate ligand departs to generate the rutheniumcarbene intermediate that drives cross, ringclosing, and selfmetathesis.

Fast Initiation

Studies show this ligand accelerates catalyst initiation by over 30%, retaining ≥ 90% activity in highpolarity media (J. Org. Chem., 2018).

3. Key Performance Advantages

“Compatible with toluene, ethyl acetate, dimethylcarbonate, CPME, DCM, DCE, neat substrate in the temperature range of RT to 100 °C. High stability allows handling in air.” apeiron-synthesis.com

High Activity: ≥ 95% conversion in most crossmetathesis at 25–40 °C.

Broad Substrate Scope: Effective on olefins bearing alcohol, ether, ester, and amide functionalities.

Operational Ease: Lower sensitivity to O₂ and trace H₂O — handles well under N₂ or glovebox conditions.

Recyclability: Maintains > 85% activity after five recovery cycles.

Ecofriendly Profile: Low toxicity and minimal impact on downstream processes.

4. Representative Applications

nitro-Grela

Literature Case: In the synthesis of a key lactone intermediate, GRELA 2 at just 60 ppm loading achieved a 92% yield without rigorous deoxygenation protocols (ACS Catalysis, 2017).

5. Safety & Compliance Guidelines

Storage: Store at –20 °C in a dry, lightprotected, sealed container.

Personal Protective Equipment: Wear nitrile gloves, safety goggles, and lab coat when handling.

Disposal: Treat as hazardous waste; arrange hightemperature incineration or professional chemical waste recycling.

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