Abstract

New and novel prolinamide organocatalysts were synthesized from L-proline and trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline under optimized conditions (93%–97% yield). The catalytic potential of both catalysts was assessed in direct aldol condensation reactions between cyclohexanone and 4-nitrobenzaldehyde. Different solvents were used to study the solvent effect to generate good yields. Water was found to be the most effective solvent, giving the highest yield of 81%. Enantioselectivities and diastereoselectivity of the aldol products formed through the use of the synthesized catalysts gave moderate to good yields and stereoselectivity.