Synthesis of Binol-based diphosphinites bearing chiral phospholane units and their application in asymmetric catalysis

New diphosphinite ligands based on atropoisomeric diol backbones and (R,R)-2,5-dimethylphospholane moieties have been prepared and fully characterised. For each ligand structure, both diastereomers have been synthesised. These ligands are available through a straightforward procedure in good yields. The solid state structures of two diastereomeric ligands are reported. These ligands have been applied to Rh-catalysed asymmetric hydrogenations and hydroformylations of C C bonds as well as in Ir-catalysed asymmetric hydrogenations of C N bonds. Turnover frequencies in the range of 10,000 h−1 and enantioselectivities of up to 98% ee have been achieved. The different chirality elements within the ligands led to marked cooperative effect in catalysis. Interestingly, there is no general privileged diastereomeric structure but rather a matched diastereomer for each application.