Recent advances in the selective semi-hydrogenation of alkyne to ( E )-olefins.

Considering the potential importance and upsurge in demand, the selective semi-hydrogenation of alkynes to ( E )-olefins has attracted significant interest. This article highlights the recent advances in newer technologies and important methodologies directed to ( E )-olefins from alkynes developed from 2015 to 2023. Notable features summarised include the catalyst or ligand design and control of product selectivity based on precious and nonprecious metal catalysts for semi-hydrogenation to ( E )-olefins. Mechanistic studies for various catalytic transformations, including synthetic application to bioactive compounds, are summarised.