Discrete Metal‐Based Catalysts for the Copolymerization of CO₂ and Epoxides: Discovery, Reactivity, Optimization, and Mechanism

TLDR

Petroleum-derived polymers dominate the market, but renewable, biodegradable alternatives such as CO₂/epoxide polycarbonates are increasingly sought, prompting extensive catalyst development since the 1960s. This review surveys well‑defined catalysts for epoxide–CO₂ copolymerization and related reactions. It examines catalyst structures, reactivity, optimization, and mechanistic pathways underlying CO₂/epoxide copolymerization.

Abstract

Most synthetic polymers are made from petroleum feedstocks. Given the non-renewable nature of these materials, there is increasing interest in developing routes to polymeric materials from renewable resources. In addition, there is a growing demand for biodegradable polymeric materials. Polycarbonates made from CO(2) and epoxides have the potential to meet these goals. Since the discovery of catalysts for the copolymerization of CO(2) and epoxides in the late 1960's by Inoue, a significant amount of research has been directed toward the development of catalysts of improved activity and selectivity. Reviewed here are well-defined catalysts for epoxide-CO(2) copolymerization and related reactions.