Abstract
The reactions producing either linear or cyclic carbonates from CO2 are presented. Wherever possible, the mechanisms of the reactions are highlighted. The thermodynamically favourable reaction of CO2 with epoxides is briefly covered, before the challenges associated with the endogenic, direct reaction of CO2 with alcohols and diols are addressed. The equilibrium yields of these reactions are on the order of a few percent. The synthesis of linear dimethyl carbonate from CO2 and methanol is discussed primarily using the examples of nBu2Sn(OMe)2 as a homogeneous catalyst and ZrO2 as a heterogeneous catalyst. The reactions of diols and CO2 to give cyclic carbonates are then covered, with the CeO2·ZrO2 and zinc acetate/acetonitrile (MeCN) systems as the most relevant examples. The effect of water traps for changing the equilibrium position of these reactions is presented, before speculation on the future industrial relevance of these reactions.
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