Application of CO2 as a C1-Synthon in Organic Chemistry: II. Catalytic Synthesis of Cyclic Carbonates (Carbamates) from CO2 and Epoxides (Aziridines)

Carbon dioxide is a cheap, easily available, and practically inexhaustible source of synthetic carbon (C1-synthon). Among various transformations of CO2, the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and cyclic carbamates from aziridines can be referred to as priority areas in the development of contemporary chemical synthesis and catalysis. Cyclic carbonates found wide application in modern industry (electrolytes, solvents, reagents, polymers) and their use and production will be constantly increased. The development of effective catalytic processes that would allow the synthesis of carbonates under mild conditions (atmospheric pressure of CO2 or lower, temperature 25°C) and low loads of durable and affordable catalysts is at the forefront of research. In the present review we analyze the existing directions of research on the catalytic systems based earth-abundant metals Al3+, Fe2+(3+), and Zn2+ for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and cyclic carbamates from aziridines.