Asymmetric hydrosilylation and hydroformylation reactions

Abstract

In this chapter, recent advances in selected areas of asymmetric hydrosilylation and hydroformylation reactions will be described. The mechanism will only be briefly discussed here as the focus of this chapter is on the significant progress being made in ligand design. Both processes most likely proceed via hydrometallation of the alkene as outlined in Scheme 10.1. The intermediate metalalkyl (I) can then undergo overall formylation or silylation depending on the reaction conditions. At least one new chiral centre is generated in these reactions. As will be described below, to a very significant degree the absolute stereochemistry of these new centres may now be controlled by the incorporation of any of a number of new chiral, non-racemic ligands in the transition metal catalyst. Scheme 10.1 also highlights the problem of control of regioselectivity often associated with these reactions.