B(C6F5)3-catalysed cyclic carbonate editing

Abstract

We report an unusual approach involving Lewis-acid–catalyzed cyclic carbonate editing. This CO₂-retaining and metal-free process could be performed at room temperature with 100% atom economy. The products each incorporated a tetra-substituted stereodefined alkenyl moiety, which is challenging to synthesize or done so with poor atom economy when using other methods. DFT calculations detailed the reaction pathways and the origin of excellent steroselectivity.