Development of a Continuous-Flow Microreactor for Asymmetric Epoxidation of Electron-Deficient Olefins

Abstract

Asymmetric epoxidation of electron-deficient olefins catalyzed by a biomimetic iron complex in a continuous-flow microreactor is described. The reaction conducted in the microreactor is characterized by rapid (<4 min) epoxidation of trisubstituted enones in high yields (up to 90%) and excellent enantioselectivities (up to 92% ee); compared to its batchwise counterpart, the microreactor reaction also allows shorter reaction times, safer operation, and more precise control over the reaction conditions.