Carbon dioxide transformation as a green alternative to phosgene and chloroformates: N-carboxyalkylation of lactams and analogues

A clean, safe, and efficient method for the N-carboxyalkylation of lactams was designed and studied in the current report. This three-component coupling of the substrate, carbon dioxide and an alkyl halide, has been developed as a green alternative to phosgene and chloroformates, and takes place at ambient temperature and low pressure of CO2. This provided an improved protocol for the protection of cyclic amides and other functional groups and allowed the obtention of non-classical N-carboxyalkyl derivatives for which the corresponding chloroformates are not accessible or commercially available. The model reaction was successfully performed with car diesel engine emissions and opens the way for new perspectives of carbon capture and use solutions.

Automated summary

A clean, safe, and efficient method for the N-carboxyalkylation of lactams has been developed in this study, offering a green alternative to traditional methods. This method allows for the protection of cyclic amides and other functional groups, as well as the obtention of non-classical N-carboxyalkyl derivatives. The use of car diesel engine emissions in the model reaction highlights the potential for new perspectives in carbon capture and use solutions.