The MPEG effect: improving asymmetric processes by simple additives.
Small amounts of simple methoxy poly(ethylene glycol)s (MPEGs) have a beneficial effect on catalyzed asymmetric aryl and alkyl transfer reactions onto aldehydes. The enantiomeric excesses of the products are improved, and this "MPEG effect" allows a reduction of the catalyst loading by a factor of 10.
Rudolph
Jens
J
Institut für Organische Chemie der RWTH Aachen, Professor Pirlet Strasse 1, D-52056 Aachen, Germany.
Hermanns
Nina
N
Bolm
Carsten
C