Observation of Hyperpositive Non-Linear Effects in Asymmetric Catalysis

Asymmetric amplification is a phenomenon that plays a key role in the emergence of homochirality in life. In asymmetric catalysis, theoretical and experimental models have been investigated for understanding how chiral amplification is possible, in particular through non-linear effect. In the most remarkable cases, the degree of enantio-induction from a non-enantiopure catalyst can be as high as with an enantiopure reference system. Interestingly, it has been proposed a quarter century ago that chiral catalysts, when not enantiopure may be more enantioselective than their enantiopure counterparts, though such a case has never been observed to date. We show here than such hyperpositive non-linear effect in asymmetric catalysis is absolutely possible. A depth study into the underlying mechanism was carried out and our conclusion differs from the proposed models.