Illustrating Catalysis with Interlocking Building Blocks: A BINAP–Ruthenium Complex Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation

A unique method has been developed using an interlocking building-block model equipped with magnets to illustrate the catalytic asymmetric hydrogenation of β-keto esters by a BINAP–ruthenium complex to enhance students’ understanding of this process. A BINAP–ruthenium block model, mimicking the coordination environment around the metal center in the real complex, can be used to convert the β-keto ester model into a β-hydroxy ester model. This model was used to provide a greater understanding of the essence of the catalytic reaction and to assist students in their understanding of its mechanism.