This chemical is a ruthenium(II) complex primarily used as a catalyst in transfer hydrogenation reactions. It facilitates the reduction of carbonyl compounds, such as ketones and aldehydes, to alcohols using hydrogen donors like isopropanol or formic acid. It is also effective in the reduction of imines to amines and other unsaturated functional groups. Its air stability, ease of handling, and high activity make it a valuable tool in organic synthesis, particularly for the production of pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and chiral alcohols when combined with chiral ligands. Additionally, it finds applications in asymmetric catalysis and other ruthenium-mediated transformations, contributing to advancements in synthetic chemistry.