Enantioselective catalysts, often referred to as chiral catalysts, facilitate the formation of one enantiomer over the other. These catalysts can be divided into two main types:
1. Homogeneous Catalysts: These are molecular catalysts typically dissolved in the same phase as the reactants. They often include chiral ligands that create a chiral environment around the active site, thus favoring the formation of one enantiomer.
2. Heterogeneous Catalysts: These are solid catalysts that provide a chiral surface for the reaction. The surface properties and the arrangement of atoms can induce enantioselectivity.
