Attrition-Enhanced Deracemization in the Synthesis of Clopidogrel - A Practical Application of a New Discovery

The recently discovered technique of deracemization by means of attrition-induced grinding of a solid conglomerate in contact with a solution wherein racemization occurs has been used with a derivative of 2-chlorophenyl glycine, the key chiral component in the synthesis of Clopidogrel (Plavix). Deracemization of the racemate proceeds to a single enantiomer and in essentially absolute enantiomeric excess. Further conversion of enantiomerically pure material to Clopidogrel was achieved in 88% yield.