The assignment of the absolute configuration of 1,2-diols by low-temperature NMR of a single MPA derivative.

[reaction: see text] The absolute configuration of 1,2-primary/secondary diols can be easily assigned by low-temperature NMR of a bis-MPA ester derivative. The assignment requires the analysis of just the methylene protons, is not limited by the absence of signals from the R group of the diol, and requires a very small and recoverable sample.