Asymmetric epoxidation radical addition reactions

On the other hand, the addition of a quaternary ammonium salt to the reaction medium accelerates the isomerization of the radical intermediate [36]. Thus, the epoxidation of c/j-stilbene in the presence of A -benzylquinine salt gives rranr-stilbene oxide with 90% ee as major product (Table 6B.1, entry 24). This protocol provides an effective method for the synthesis of trans-epoxides. In contrast to the epoxidation of c/s-di- and tri-substituted olefins for which complexes 11-13 are the catalysts of choice, the best catalyst for the epoxidation of tetra-substituted conjugated olefins varies with substrates (Table 6B.1, entries 27 and 28) [37]. The asymmetric epoxidation of 6-bromo-2,2,3,4-tetramethylchromene is well-promoted by complex 14 and that of 2-methyl-3-phenylindene, by complex 12a. 

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