A versatile co(bisalen) unit for homogeneous and heterogeneous cooperative catalysis in the hydrolytic kinetic resolution of epoxides.

Bisalen-very cooperative: A novel styryl-substituted, unsymmetrical bisalen is shown to be a versatile precursor to both soluble and insoluble cooperative catalysts for the hydrolytic kinetic resolution of epoxides. The unique bisalen motif ensures all catalysts derived from it have the necessary molecular-level ligand pairing needed for cooperative bimetallic catalytic reactions (see scheme).