Chiral cationic phosphonites: Applications towards the enantioselective synthesis of helicenes and related polyarenes

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Manuel Alcarazo
• Subject Area: Organic Molecular Chemistry - Synthesis and Characterisation
• Term: from 2011 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 209931430

Along this research project a new approach for the enantioselective synthesis of helicenes and structurally related molecules is proposed, consisting on the assembling of these architectures through the hydroarylation of suitable alkynes using chiral Au-catalysts. Specifically, enantiopure cationic phosphonites will be used as ancillary ligands to prepare the necessary catalysts. It is of note that many racemic and diasteroselective syntheses are available for the preparation of the aforementioned structures, but enantioselective entries are really scarce; thus, in case of success, this research project might open an expeditious entry to these compounds, which are quite interesting in areas such as catalysis, molecular machines and/or liquid crystal technology.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants