| abstract |
The present invention relates to a process for preparing a compound of formula I (see formula): which is aquiral, racemic or enantiomerically enriched in the hydroxylation center indicated by *, which comprises contacting a compound of formula II ( see formula): with an oxidant selected from oxygen, hydrogen, peroxide, peracides or hydroperoxides of alkyl in the presence of a zirconium complex, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the description. This invention also relates to zirconium complexes useful in this process comprising zirconium and a ligand of formula III (see formula): or its enantiomer, wherein J, R6 and n are as defined in the description. This invention also relates to a compound of formula III or its enantiomer. |