Abstract: A microencapsulated catalyst-ligand system is provided comprising a catalyst and a ligand microencapsulated within a permeable polymer microcapsule shell, wherein the ligand is a polymeric ligand. Processes for the preparation of said microencapsulated catalyst-ligand system are also provided.

Abstract: A microencapsulated catalyst is prepared by dissolving or dispersing a catalyst in a first phase (for example an organic phase), dispersing the first phase in a second, continuous phase (for example an aqueous phase) to form an emulsion, reacting one or more microcapsule wall-forming materials at the interface between the dispersed first phase and the continuous second phase to form a microcapsule polymer shell encapsulating the dispersed first phase core and optionally recovering the microcapsules from the continuous phase. The catalyst is preferably a transition metal catalyst and the encapsulated catalyst may be used for conventional catalysed reactions. The encapsulated catalyst may recovered from the reaction medium and re-cycled.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a catalyst system. In particular the invention relates to a catalyst in the form of metal or an alloy that is encapsulated within a polymer shell or matrix. More specifically the invention is directed towards reactive catalytic metals that may be pyrophoric or otherwise reactive in air and/or susceptible to oxidation. In particular, the invention is concerned with catalysts based on nickel. Raney or sponge nickel is highly hazardous: a self-igniting solid; produces hazardous fumes when burning; causes irritation of the respiratory tract, nasal cavities; causes pulmonary fibrosis if inhaled; ingestion may lead to convulsions and intestinal disorders; causes eye and skin irritation; and chronic exposure may lead to pneumonitis and sensitization (“nickel itch”). The invention provides metal catalysts that avoid such problems and have a good shelf life and working life.