Homogeneous Hydrogenation

The present review examines catalytic systems which activate molecular hydrogen. Particular attention is paid to catalysis by compounds of transition metals. These systems are discussed in the following order: catalysis by salts of transition metals; catalysis by salts of transition metals in the presence of reducing agents (complex-forming reagents); and catalysis by individual complexes. General problems relating to the activation of hydrogen and the mechanism of the hydrogenation of organic compounds are also discussed. A separate section is devoted to the activation of molecular hydrogen by enzymatic systems. The bibliography contains 282 references.