The first example of asymmetric hydrogenation of imines with Co2(CO)8/(R)-BINAP as catalytic precursor

The first example of asymmetric hydrogenation of imines using Co2(CO)8/(R)-BINAP/H2/CO system was developed. The reaction conditions were screened with a wide range of N-aryl benzophenone ketimines, obtaining products with excellent yields and good enantiomeric excess. Moreover, a pathway is suggested based on the isolation and characterization of several catalyst intermediates.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (90 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► The first example of catalytic asymmetric hydrogenation of imine with Co2(CO)8-BINAP. ► Excellent yields of secondary amines were obtained. ► Good enantiomeric excess was found. ► A reaction pathway was suggested.