Catalytic asymmetric ring opening of meso-epoxides with aromatic amines in water

An operationally simple and environmentally benign protocol for the catalytic asymmetric ring opening of meso-epoxides with aromatic amines has been developed. The reactions proceeded smoothly in the presence of 1 mol % Of Sc(OSO3C12H25)(3) and 1.2 mol % of a chiral bipyridine ligand in water to afford beta-amino alcohols in high yields with excellent enantioselectivities.