Synthesis of Carbonate Esters by Carboxymethylation Using NaAlO2 as a Highly Active Heterogeneous Catalyst

Sodium aluminate is presented as a highly active heterogeneous catalyst that is able to convert a range of alcohols into the corresponding unsymmetrical carbonate esters by reaction with dimethyl carbonate. Preparing NaAlO2 via spray drying boosts the basic properties and the activity of the catalyst.