Structure-control in assembly of nanosheets: Novel chiral catalysts for the asymmetric epoxidation of α-methylstyrene without axial base

Heterogeneous chiral catalysts with different structure, surface character and location of active species were assembled by salen Mn(III) complex and α-Zr(HPO4)2 nanosheets. The bumpy edge-accumulated surfaces of nanosheets lead the catalyst to have a high ee value without axial base in the asymmetric epoxidation of α-methylstyrene.

Graphical abstractDifferent structure, surface character and location of active species lead to a distinct ee value in the asymmetric epoxidation of α-methylstyrene.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Novel chiral catalysts with different structure and surface character were prepared. ► Distinct catalytic behaviors for the asymmetric epoxidation were presented. ► The costly axial base is not required here for the enhancement of enantioselectivity. ► The bumpy edge-accumulated surface is superior to the large smooth basal plane. ► The surface may become a novel and sensitive chemical environment for catalysis.