Enantioselective Symmetry Breaking Directed by the Order of Process Steps

Going forward in reverse: The configuration of the product of grinding-induced symmetry breaking can be controlled simply by the order in which the different reaction-mixture components are combined (see scheme: I) glass beads, II) racemic mixture (enantiomers differentiated by color), III) solvent, IV) racemization catalyst). The underlying mechanism is based on a subtle balance between enantioselective crystal growth and dissolution.