A novel optically active bisphosphine ligand CDP, derived from an anti head-to-head coumarin dimer: synthesis and application to the rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of arylenamides
A novel optically active bisphosphine ligand CDP containing a C-2-symmetric cyclobutane ring was prepared from an enantiopure anti head-to-head coumarin dimer. CDP was successfully applied to the rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of arylenamides, affording the corresponding amides up to 93% e.e. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.