Highly efficient 3d/4d–4f coordination polymer catalysts for carbon dioxide fixation into cyclic carbonates

Abstract

Two novel highly efficient 3d/4d–4f one-dimensional (1D) double-chain coordination polymer catalysts with unique structures were synthesized for the first time. An X-ray single crystal structure analysis revealed that the two compounds are isomorphous and have a 1D metal–organic network coordination polymer structure. Both compounds also showed significant thermal stability and their structures remained stable up to 325 °C. The reaction conditions, type of substrate, amount of catalyst and its catalytic mechanism were investigated. The catalysts ([Dy₂M₂L₄ (OAc)₂ (MeOH)₅ (H₂O)]) (M = Zn, Cd) exhibited excellent catalytic activity in the cycloaddition of CO₂ and styrene oxide (C₈H₈O, SO). High product yields, high selectivity, and the highest turnover frequency (TOF) of 28 400 h⁻¹ were achieved. Additionally, the catalysts can significantly enhance the application of the present types of 3d/4d–4f catalysts in catalysis for transformations involving the fixation of CO₂.