Journal of the American Chemical Society 2004-09-22

Alternating copolymerization of limonene oxide and carbon dioxide.

Christopher M Byrne, Scott D Allen, Emil B Lobkovsky, Geoffrey W Coates

Index: J. Am. Chem. Soc. 126(37) , 11404-5, (2004)

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Abstract

The alternating copolymerization of (R)- or (S)-limonene oxide and CO2 using beta-diiminate zinc acetate catalysts is reported. At 100 psi CO2 and 25 degrees C, the catalyst exhibits a high selectivity for the trans isomer and produces regioregular polycarbonate. The copolymer contains >99% carbonate linkages, a narrow molecular weight distribution, and an Mn value consistent with the [epoxide]/[Zn] ratio.