Light-driven asymmetric coupling of aromatic aldehydes and aryl iodides using a simple amine reductant

Abstract

In light of overcoming the sustainability challenge in reduction processes by using a ‘greener’ yet less reactive reductant, a cobalt-catalyzed asymmetric reductive coupling reaction of aromatic aldehydes and aryl iodides has been developed with i-Pr₂NEt as the reductant. A series of high-value-added chiral diaryl carbinols were afforded in high yields and enantioselectivities.