Sc(BINOL)2Li:: a new heterobimetallic catalyst for the asymmetric Strecker reaction

The new chiral heterobimetallic complex Sc(BINOL)(2)Li 1 was prepared and used as a catalyst in the enantioselective addition of a cyanide source (HCN or TMSCN) to several imines. High conversion rates and enantiomeric e excesses (e.e.s) as high as 95% were obtained. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.