Research Progress on the Ethylene Oligomerization Catalyzed by Bis(Imino)Pyridyl Iron
Ethylene oligomerization is one of the major industrial processes for producing linear α-olefins.In recent years,there has been significant progress in the research of ethylene oligomerization catalyzed by iron complexes.Sinopec has seized this opportunity to develop the phenanthroline iron-based catalysts and related technologies,successfully applying them in industrial production.Despite the field's maturity,further optimization of catalysts to enhance their stability,activity,and selectivity is still of great importance in both fundamental research and practical application,yet faces considerable challenges.Based on this,we review the development of classical bis(imino)pyridine iron catalysts,focusing on the effects of electronic effects and steric hindrance of the ligand substituents.We hope this review will be useful for the rational design and development of new,efficient iron-based ethylene oligomerization catalysts.