Proline-Catalyzed Synthesis of 5-Aryl-2-oxazolidinones from Carbon Dioxide and Aziridines Under Solvent-Free Conditions

Abstract

Natural α-amino acids were proven to be ecofriendly and recyclable catalysts for the carboxylation of aziridines with CO2 without utilization of any organic solvents or additives. Notably, a series of 5-aryl-2-oxazolidinones were obtained in good yield together with excellent chemo- and regioselectivity under mild conditions using proline as the catalyst. Notably, the catalyst could be recycled more than five times after a simple separation procedure without appreciable loss of catalytic activity. This process represents a promising strategy for homogeneous catalyst recycling.