中文名称 | 英文名称 | CAS号 | 化学式 | 分子量 |
---|---|---|---|---|
—— | (isobutyl)(1-phenylethyl)amine | 42290-98-2 | C12H19N | 177.29 |
—— | N-(α-methylbenzyl)isobutyramide | 72924-95-9 | C12H17NO | 191.273 |
R(+)-alpha-甲基苄胺 | (R)-1-phenyl-ethyl-amine | 3886-69-9 | C8H11N | 121.182 |
A combined computational and experimental approach allowed us to develop the most selective catalysts for the direct hydrogenation of N‐methyl and N‐alkyl imines described to date. Iridium catalysts with a cyclometallated cyclic imide group provide selectivity of up to 99% enantiomeric excess. Computational studies show that the selectivity results from the combined effect of H‐bonding of the imide C=O with the substrate iminium ion and a stabilizing π‐π interaction with the cyclometallated ligand. The cyclometallated ligand thus exhibits a unique mode of action, serving as a template for the H‐bond directed approach of the substrate which results in enhanced selectivity. The catalyst (2) has been synthesized and isolated as a crystalline air‐stable solid. X‐ray analysis of 2 confirmed the structure of the catalyst and the correct position of the imide C=O groups to engage in an H‐bond with the substrate. 19F‐NMR real‐time monitoring showed the hydrogenation of N‐methyl imines catalyzed by 2 is very fast, with a TOF of approx. 3500 h‐1.