Water in asymmetric organocatalytic systems: a global perspective

Abstract

Asymmetric organocatalysis often operates under near ambient conditions, which means it is air and moisture compatible. However, in many examples water is indeed necessary for achieving excellent catalytic results. Ranging from the addition of small amounts of water to a reaction, to complex catalytic systems in the presence of water as the only reaction medium, this review offers an illustrative classification of the uses of water in asymmetric organocatalysis.