Heterogenization of a Chiral Molecular Catalyst on a Carbon Support using Tryptophan as Anchor Molecule

Abstract

The (R,R)‐RhDuphos chiral catalyst has been heterogenized on the surface of a carbon material with the aid of L‐tryptophan (Trp) as anchor molecule. Trp is effectively adsorbed on the carbon surface through its arene unit and is able to coordinate Rh by means of the carbonyl and amine functional groups. The chiral hybrid catalysts prepared are very active for the asymmetric hydrogenation of 2‐methyl‐acetamidoacrylate with an acceptable enantioselectivity. Besides, when prepared with a high Tpr/Rh ratio they have shown to be stable and reusable.