Asymmetric catalytic N-phosphonyl imine chemistry: the use of primary free amino acids and [Et.sub.2]AlCN for asymmetric catalytic Strecker reaction

The new asymmetric catalytic Strecker reaction of achiral N-phosphonyl imines is described and excellent enantioselectivity are achieved by using primary free natural amino acids as catalysts and [Et.sub.2]AlCN as nucleophile. The studies have presented the novel use of nonvolatile and inexpensive [Et.sub.2]AlCN in asymmetric catalysis and the N-phosphonyl protecting group has enabled simple product purification to be achieved by washing the crude products with hexane.