Syntheses of polycarbonate and polyurethane precursors utilizing CO2 over highly efficient, solid as-synthesized MCM-41 catalyst

As-synthesized MCM-41 was used as a reusable, heterogeneous catalyst for the eco-friendly synthesis of cyclic carbonate precursors of polycarbonates via a cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with epoxides. This catalyst is also efficient for the synthesis of alkyl and aryl carbamate precursors of polyurethanes via the reaction of amines, CO2 and alkyl halides. Both these reactions were carried out under mild conditions and without using any solvent or co-catalyst. CO2 is utilized as a raw material replacement for toxic phosgene in the conventional synthesis of these chemicals.