(Bpin)2-Catalyzed Cycloaddition Reaction of Epoxides and Carbon Dioxide with a Broad Range of Functional Groups

Abstract

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) fixation and utilization is a critical area of research for scientists, particularly in light of the escalating greenhouse effect. Among the various strategies being explored, the transformation of CO₂ into high-value compounds is particularly advantageous. In this study, we report one general approach for synthesizing the cyclic carbonates from epoxides and carbon dioxide using Lewis acid catalysis, bis(pinacolato)diboron ((Bpin)₂), which is one commercial available, stable, and cost-effective reagent. The cycloaddition reactions were conducted under mild conditions and demonstrated high yields while accommodating a wide range of broad functional groups. This methodology offers an economical and practical route for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates.