Asymmetric catalytic hydrogenation reactions in supercritical carbon dioxide

We demonstrate that asymmetric catalytic hydrogenation reactions can be conducted in supercritical CO{sub 2} and that, in some cases, higher enantioselectivities can be achieved in this solvent relative to conventional solvents. These preliminary studies effectively demonstrate the feasibility of conducting highly enantioselective hydrogenation reactions in supercritical CO{sub 2}. Importantly, we have shown that higher enantioselectivities may be achieved in supercritical CO{sub 2} relative to conventional solvents. 16 refs., 2 tabs.