Alkaloid-induced asymmetric hydrogenation on a Cu nanoparticle cathode by electrochemical conditions

Copper nanoparticles were prepared in an aqueous solution, compacted into a coin, and used as a cathode for asymmetric hydrogenation by the electrochemical method for the first time. A good ee value and excellent yield were obtained under mild conditions. Electrochemical conditions were crucial for alkaloid adsorption on metallic Cu, which is a key process of asymmetric induction. Furthermore, the ee value was linear with an adsorption amount.