Asymmetric Catalysis with Chiral Lewis Bases

University Of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign, Urbana IL

Investigators

Abstract

This project explores the potential of various Lewis-acid catalyzed reactions to be promoted and rendered catalytic and/or asymmetric by the introduction of chiral Lewis bases. The types of reactions that this scheme encompasses is extensive, with immediate objectives including asymmetric aldehyde aldol reactions and aldehyde allylation reactions. Mechanistic investigations supporting the methodological studies include kinetic studies relying upon supercritical fluid chromatography and rapid-injection NMR. With this Award, the Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry Program continues its support of the research and educational activities of Professor Scott E. Denmark of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Professor Denmark conducts fundamental research into synthetic and mechanistic aspects of reactions designed to prepare small molecules controlling the stereochemistry of several centers of asymmetry in a simultaneous fashion. In addition, doctoral students of chemistry gain invaluable knowledge in the conception and conduct of modern organic chemistry.