Strategies for tuning the catalytic activity of zinc complexes in the solvent-free coupling reaction of CO2 and cyclohexene oxide

The catalytic activity of various zinc(II) complexes bearing a chelating nitrogen-donor ligand and different ancillary ligands (Cl, acetate, triflate) is investigated for the solvent-free coupling reaction of cyclohexene oxide and CO2. The effect of a co-catalyst is also studied. Whereas the investigated zinc(II) complexes with chloride or acetate as ancillary ligand are inactive, those with triflate are active, allowing the selective formation of polyether or cyclic carbonate controlled by the presence of a suitable amount of [PPN]Cl.

Automated summary

This study investigates the catalytic activity of various zinc(II) complexes with a chelating nitrogen-donor ligand and different ancillary ligands (chloride ion, acetate ion, triflate ion) for the solvent-free coupling reaction of cyclohexene oxide and CO2. The results show that the complexes with triflate ion are active, allowing for the selective formation of polyether or cyclic carbonate controlled by the presence of a suitable amount of [PPN]Cl.