Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 16, 2026

Versatile CO2 Transformations into Complex Products: A One-pot Two-step Strategy
Published on: November 9, 2019
Synthesis of cyclic carbonates from diols and CO2 catalyzed by carbenes
Felix D Bobbink1, Weronika Gruszka, Martin Hulla
1Institut des Sciences et Ingénierie Chimiques, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland. paul.dyson@epfl.ch.
Abstract:
The synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and CO2 is a well-established reaction, whereas the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from diols and CO2 is considerably more challenging, and few efficient catalysts are available. Here, we describe heterocyclic carbene catalysts, including one derived from a cheap and efficient thiazolium salt, for this latter reaction. The reaction proceeds at atmospheric pressure in the presence of an alkyl halide and Cs2CO3. Reaction mechanisms for the transformations involved are also proposed.
Related Concept Videos
Alkylation of β-Diester Enolates: Malonic Ester Synthesis
Preparation of Diols and Pinacol Rearrangement
The reaction begins with transferring a proton from the acid catalyst to one of the hydroxyl groups, producing an oxonium ion.
Diels–Alder Reaction Forming Cyclic Products: Stereochemistry
Loss of Carboxy Group as CO2: Decarboxylation of Malonic Acid Derivatives
Intramolecular Claisen Condensation of Dicarboxylic Esters: Dieckmann Cyclization
[4+2] Cycloaddition of Conjugated Dienes: Diels–Alder Reaction

