Enantioselective Michael reaction of nitroalkanes and chalcones by phase-transfer catalysis using chiral quaternary ammonium salts

The catalytic enantioselective Michael reaction promoted by quaternary ammonium salt from cinchonidine as a phase transfer catalyst is described. Treatment of nitroalkanes with chalcone derivatives under mild reaction conditions afforded the corresponding Michael adducts in good yields with good to moderate enantiomeric excesses.