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Applications and Synthesis of Chiral Cyclic Carbonates from Asymmetric CO2 Conversion

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The cycloaddition of CO2 to epoxides leading to cyclic carbonates is one of the most investigated strategies for the valorization of CO2 through the production of useful chemicals. While most efforts in this area focus on the development of new catalytic protocols and on the applications of racemic chiral carbonates, the asymmetric coupling of CO2 and epoxides catalyzed by chiral catalysts serves as a method to resolve racemic epoxides and simultaneously obtain optically pure cyclic carbonates. Moreover, the latter find applications as reagents and solvents that are reviewed in this manuscript. Therefore, the strategies for the synthesis of enantiopure cyclic carbonates are discussed with a focus on the mechanistic and catalytic aspects of the asymmetric coupling of CO2 and epoxides. Finally, insights into potential developments in the applications and synthesis of chiral cyclic carbonates are provided.

Source: Asian Journal of Organic Chemistry

DOI: 10.1002/ajoc.202500320

Authors: Banyong Suwankaisorn, Suthida Kaewsai, Wuttichai Natongchai, Valerio D’ Elia

Institution: Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Carbon dioxide utilization in catalysis

Subfield: Process Chemistry and Technology

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Climate action

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology, National Research Council of Thailand