New cobalt, iron and chromium catalysts based on easy-to-handle N₄-chelating ligands for the coupling reaction of epoxides with CO₂

Abstract

In this contribution, we report the successful utilization of several transition metal complexes based on substituted N4-N,N-bis(2-pyridinecarboxamide)-1,2-benzene chelating ligands as catalysts in the coupling of epoxides with carbon dioxide. The complexes were tested towards cyclohexene oxide and propylene oxide. Additionally the recyclability of the catalytic system was evaluated and a broader catalytic screening involving several commercially available epoxides was carried out with selected catalysts.