Chiral N,N'-dioxide-scandium(III)-catalyzed asymmetric epoxidation of 2-arylidene-1,3-diketones with hydrogen peroxide

Article abstract of DOI:10.1002/adsc.201400341

The catalytic asymmetric epoxidation of 2-arylidene-1,3-diketones using aqueous 30% H₂O₂ as oxidant has been successfully realized by a N,N'-dioxide-scandium(III) triflate [Sc(OTf)₃] complex, giving the corresponding products in moderate to good yields (up to 85%) with excellent enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee) under mild reaction conditions without extra additives.