Asymmetric synthesis of alpha,alpha-dibranched propargylamines by acetylide additions to N-tert-butanesulfinyl ketimines.

Addition of lithium acetylides prepared from 1-pentyne, phenylacetylene, and trimethylsilylacetylene to diverse N-tert-butanesulfinyl ketimines affords a range of alpha,alpha-dibranched propargyl sulfinamides in generally good yields (up to 87%) and with high diastereoselectivities (up to >99:1). Acidic cleavage of the tert-butanesulfinyl group provides the free alpha,alpha-dibranched propargylamines.