formaldehyd in tetrahydrofuran Trans-i-PrOIr(CO)(PPh3)2 and paraformaldehyde are dissolved in THF and stirred ( 2 days, room temp.).; React. is monitored by IR. Removing of solvent yields yellow solid, chromy. on Florisil (eluant: THF/cyclohexane).;

triphenylphosphine in toluene soln. of Ir complex and PPh3 (.approx. 2-3 equiv.) in toluene allowed to stir at 70°C for several hours; org. products detected by gas chromy.;