Organocatalytic synthesis of bio-based cyclic carbonates from CO2 and vegetable oils

Bio-based cyclic carbonates were synthesized by coupling CO2 with epoxidized linseed oil using a catalytic platform composed of a bicomponent organocatalyst. Screening of the catalytic activity of a series of organic salts and ionic liquids used in combination with (multi) phenolic or fluorinated hydrogen bond donors was realized before highlighting the synergistic effect between the organocatalyst and the most efficient cocatalysts. These kinetics studies, followed by IR spectroscopy under pressure, enabled optimization of the reaction conditions and to provide quantitative formation of the cyclocarbonated vegetable oil in a short reaction time without using any organic solvent.