Abstract: Optical active amines 4a-d were prepared in three steps from prochiral ketones 1a-d using R- or S-α-phenylethylamine as chiral source. All reactions were carried out under atmospheric pressure, and expensive chemicals were not used. Medium or good stereoselectivities were found. Over all yields were 39%～50%. Reaction time of imination plays an important role for E/Z selectivity of product 2a-d. Stereoselectivity would be improved if much lower temperature were used in the reduction.

Key words:
ammonium formate, amine, chiral compound, α-phenylethylamine, asynmmetric synthesis