This dissertation deals with the synthesis, characterization, and application of selenium-containing phosphoric acids (selenophosphoric acids, DSAs) as Brønsted acid catalysts in organic synthesis. The goal was to develop reproducible synthetic protocols for these compounds and to investigate their catalytic potential—particularly with respect to asymmetric transformations. The core of the research focused on 3,3'-substituted BINOL-based DSAs, which enabled enantioselective catalysis for the first time using this class of compounds. This represents a novel approach to asymmetric organocatalysis with chiral, superacidic Brønsted acids. The work begins with a literature review summarizing the current state of research on BINOL-based, superacidic Brønsted acids, with particular emphasis on structure–activity relationships and applications in asymmetric catalysis. In addition to preparative methods, structural and dynamic properties were investigated using NMR spectroscopic techniques. In particular, 1D NMR methods with satellite signal analysis and DOSY NMR were applied to elucidate structural features and molecular aggregation behavior. Another part of the dissertation examines the solution structure of a magnesium cobaltat complex, studied as part of a collaborative project. DOSY NMR spectroscopy revealed that this catalyst exists as a contact ion pair in solution—an important contribution to understanding reactivity and structure in transition metal catalysis. This work contributes to the development of selective, selenium-based Brønsted acid catalysts and deepens the understanding of ionic interactions in homogeneous catalytic systems. It fits into the current landscape of research in asymmetric organocatalysis and offers new perspectives for the targeted use of chiral superacids in synthetic chemistry.
J.P. Eder (Thu,) studied this question.