Kinetic Resolution of Atropisomeric Amides

We have demonstrated the feasibility of the kinetic resolution of atropisomeric amides using the commercially avaliable AD-mix. To our knowledge, this methodology represents the first catalytic kinetic resolution of such compounds. Relative rates of up to 32 have been found for the kinetic resolution processes. We have also determined the barriers to rotation and half-lives of some of these amides. The half-lives range from 7 to 135 h at room temperature.