NSO2C6H4-4-CH3 or O) and t-C4H9OK catalyzes the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of
various benzaldehyde-1-d derivatives with 2-propanol to yield (R)-benzyl-1-d alcohols in
95− 99% ee and with> 99% isotopic purity. Reaction of benzaldehydes with a DCO2D-
triethylamine mixture and the R, R catalyst affords the S deuterated alcohols in 97− 99% ee.