Zirconium Bis(Amido) Catalysts for Asymmetric Intramolecular Alkene Hydroamination

In situ combination of diphosphinic amides and Zr(NMe2)4 results in the formation of chiral zirconium bis(amido) complexes. The complexes are competent catalysts for intramolecular asymmetric alkene hydroamintion, providing piperidines and pyrrolidines in up to 80% ee and high yield. This system utilizes an inexpensive precatalyst, readily prepared ligands and is the first asymmetric alkene hydroamination catalyst based upon a neutral zirconium bis(amido) complex.