Chitosan Aerogel Beads as a Heterogeneous Organocatalyst for the Asymmetric Aldol Reaction in the Presence of Water: An Assessment of the Effect of Additives

The catalytic properties of chitosan aerogel for the direct asymmetric aldol reaction in water assisted by various surfactants and acid co-catalysts have been evaluated by employing a range of donor and acceptor systems. A beneficial effect on both the yields and enantioselectivities was observed, and the combination of surfactants and acid co-catalysts has proven particularly useful in the case of heterocyclic ketone donors.