Organic small-molecule-catalyzed carbonylation reactions

Abstract

C1 chemistry is important from both academic research and industrial application perspectives, and it is extensively studied with metal catalysts. Considering the advantages of organic small-molecule catalysts, it is highly attractive to explore their use as catalysts in carbonylation chemistry. This review examines organic small-molecule-catalyzed carbonylation reactions from an advanced catalysis perspective, with a particular emphasis on N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) catalysis and oxygen, sulfur, selenium, nitrogen and phosphine main-group species-based catalysts to further expand the conceptual and synthetic landscape of sustainable carbonylation. These advances define carbonylation as a catalyst designed reaction and highlight opportunities for future organic small molecule driven development.