Enantioselective Friedel-Crafts reactions of aromatic amines with ethyl glyoxylate in pyridinium-based ionic liquids

The Friedel - Crafts reactions of aromatic amines with ethyl glyoxylate in pyridinium-based ionic liquids (ILs) are investigated using 2,2'-dihydroxy-1,1'-binaphthyl ( BINOL) metal complexes as chiral catalysts. Reaction parameters such as the catalyst - IL compositions, reactant compositions, reaction time, and reaction temperature are studied. High yields and excellent enantioselectivities are achieved under the relatively mild conditions. The ILs can also be recycled and reused as opposed to traditional solvent systems.