Promoter-dependent course of the Beckmann rearrangement of stereoisomeric spiro[4.4]nonane-1,6-dione monoximes.

Activation of the Beckmann rearrangement of the enantiopure spirocyclic keto oximes (-)-9 and (-)-12 has been initiated with four acidic promoters. In two cases (PPE and PPSE), concerted 1,2 shift of the anti carbon operates exclusively. This is not the case with PPA or Eaton's reagent, although optical activity is fully maintained in these ring expansions as well.