Sustainable Synthesis of Polymeric Materials versus Fine Chemicals via CO2 Addition to Epoxides

Abstract

The development of efficient chemical processes capable of transforming carbon dioxide (CO2) into value-added products constitutes one of the greatest challenges for the scientific community. In this context, the use of carbon dioxide as a C1 source is a relevant topic and, over the last decade, there has been remarkable scientific and technological advances regarding the development of chemical processes for converting CO2 into added value products. We highlight the reaction of CO2 addition to epoxides, from which it is possible to selectively obtain two types of products: cyclic carbonates and polycarbonates, both with relevant applications as fine chemicals and polymeric materials, respectively.