Highly efficient synthesis of cyclic carbonates from CO2 and epoxides over cellulose/KI

Abstract

Cellulose/KI is a very active, selective, stable, and recyclable catalyst for the cycloaddition reactions of CO₂ and epoxides due to the excellent synergetic effect of cellulose and KI. It is found that the hydroxyl groups on the vicinal carbons of cellulose play a key role for the very high efficiency of the catalyst.