Nonlinear effects in asymmetric catalysis: A personal account

Abstract

The discovery of nonlinear effects (NLE) is recalled, and the main features of NLE are described. The origin of the nonlinear effects is discussed. The asymmetric amplification is especially considered. The concept on nonlinear effects has been extended to pseudo-enantiomeric catalysts, to chiral reagents and to kinetic resolution. The use of NLE as a mechanistic tool is underlined.