Enhanced reactivity and selectivity of asymmetric oxa-Michael addition of 2'-hydroxychalcones in carbon confined spaces.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are employed as nanoscale reaction vessels for the asymmetric oxa-Michael addition of 2'-hydroxychalcones. A systematic comparison of the catalytic activities of chiral phosphoric acid treated ferrite nanoparticles (chiral ferrites) has been studied for the synthesis of flavanones. Higher reactivity and selectivity with switching of enantiomers were observed when these chiral ferrites are inside the CNT channel.