The role of Zn in the sustainable one-pot synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from carbon dioxide, methanol and propylene oxide

Dimethyl carbonate (DMC) can be applied as a greener alternative to more hazardous materials, e.g. phosgene or dimethyl sulfate. Herein, one-pot synthesis of DMC from propylene oxide, methanol and CO2 using alkali halide catalysts under mild conditions was studied. Addition Zn powder the K2CO3-NaBr-ZnO catalyst system seen increase selectivity 19.8% (TOF = 39.0 h?1) 40.2% 78.1 at 20 bar 160 °C for 5 h. Catalyst characterisation showed that increases stability catalyst, preventing active ingredients on surface leaching. An in oxide conversion is attributed Zn2+ ions reaction solution. Elevated pressure not found necessary condition transesterification. This study shows increased achieved with addition powder.