Polymer-supported beta-amino thioesters as catalysts for the enantioselective addition of diethylzinc to aldehydes

A series of novel polymer-supported thioesters were prepared and found to be effective catalysts for the enantioselective addition of diethylzinc to benzaldehyde. These catalysts gave 1-phenylpropanol in up to 86% ee. The catalysts were fully recyclable and could be used in subsequent additions with retention of the enantioselectivity and efficiency levels