CaCl2, Bisoxazoline, and Malonate: A Protocol for an Asymmetric Michael Reaction

A mild protocol for the asymmetric Michael addition of dimethyl malonate to various α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds was developed. The salient feature of this methodology is that a cheap and environmentally friendly Lewis acid, CaCl2, was used as a catalyst. An aminoindanol- and pyridine-derived ligand provided in the presence of CaCl2 Michael adducts in moderate to high enantioselectivities. The scope of the reaction was demonstrated.