Development of the BIPI ligands for asymmetric hydrogenation

Abstract

The detailed development of unique BIPI ligands suitable for asymmetric hydrogenation is described, and the process research leading to their kilogram-scale manufacture is discussed. Full optimization of each ligand region is shown, and the complete design features for these ligands are explained. Application of the best members of this ligand class to asymmetric hydrogenations of ureaesters, BOC- and CBZ-enecarbamates, and a variety of enamides are described. A novel resolution of P-chiral ligand precursors via their zinc complexes is described, and the research leading to the discovery of catalysts capable of carrying out asymmetric hydrogenations in >99% ee at multi-kilogram scale are presented.