A chiral ligand of 2-(α-pyridyl)-4-carbomethoxy-1, 3-thiazolidine was synthesized by condensation of L-methyl cysteinate with α-pyridylaldehye. The Rh(I) complex generated in situ by reaction of the chiral ligand with [Rh(COD)]2 was used to catalyze the asymmetric hydrosilation of acetophenone. The chemical and optical yields of the reaction are up to 91% and 82.1% e.e. respectively. The influences of reaction conditions on the behaviour of the catalyst were examined.

Key words: PYRIDINE P, THIAZOLE P, CONDENSATION REACTION, CATALYSIS, ACETOPHENONE, RHODIUM COMPLEX, FORMALDEHYDE P, HYDROSILYLATION