Synthesis of Diphenyl Carbonate from CO2, Phenoxide, and CCl4 with ZnCl2 as Catalyst

Abstract

Abstract Direct synthesis of diphenyl carbonate (DPC) from phenoxide, CO2 and CCl4 in one pot was realized with ZnCl2 as catalyst. Trichloromethyl cation may act on potassium phenyl carbonate, which brings the carbonyl more easily attached on by the phenoxide. Onium salts promote the reaction greatly, especially with phenol and potassium carbonate instead of phenoxide as reactants. Moreover, the substituent on the aromatic ring has significant effects on the selectivity and yield of carbonate.