The York Research Database

This review surveys six classes of heterogeneous catalysts that have been used in the conversion of epoxides and CO2 into cyclic carbonates; metal organic frameworks (MOFs); silica-based catalysts; organic polymer supports; metal oxides; zeolites and carbon-based catalysts. Many of these catalysts are extremely active in the ring-opening of terminal epoxides, require fairly mild conditions and can be made in a sustainable manner. Some catalytic systems however require toxic and hazardous chemicals in their synthesis, and many struggle to ring-open the more sterically demanding and hindered internal epoxides. This review covers the most recent heterogeneous catalysts reported in the literature, not only from a catalytic efficiency perspective but also from a green chemistry and sustainable viewpoint.