l-Prolinamide derivatives as efficient organocatalysts for aldol reactions on water

A series of l-prolinamide derivatives have been evaluated as potential organocatalysts for aldol reactions. To synthesize these catalysts, a novel and simple route has been developed using proline N-carboxyanhydride (proline-NCA). A new catalyst with a trifluoromethyl-sulfonamide group has been found exhibiting excellent diastereoselectivity (anti/syn: 97/3) and enantioselectivity (99% ee) with 10 mol % loading and being easily recyclable in water.