Efficient asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of activated olefins catalyzed by ruthenium amido complexes

The asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of activated olefins with chiral ruthenium amido complexes (Noyori catalyst) using formic acid-triethylamine azeotrope as hydrogen source resulted in excellent yields and high enantioselectivities (up to 88.5%). (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.