Synthesis of a rigid and optically active poly(BINAP) and its application in asymmetric catalysis

The first rigid and sterically regular chiral poly[2,2′-bis(diphenylphosphino)-1,1′-binaphthyl] [poly(BINAP)] is synthesized. The application of this polymer ligand in asymmetric hydrogenations is examined. High enantioselectivity for the asymmetric hydrogenation of ketones is achieved. The catalytic properties of the poly(BINAP)-based catalysts are very similar to those of the BINAP catalysts. This study further demonstrates that rigid and sterically regular polymer structures are able to preserve the catalytic properties of monomer catalysts.