J. Am. Chem. Soc., 126 (37), 11404 -11405, 2004. 10.1021/ja0472580 S0002-7863(04)07258-0
Web Release Date: August 24, 2004

Copyright © 2004 American Chemical Society

Alternating Copolymerization of Limonene Oxide and Carbon Dioxide

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

Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Baker Laboratory, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853

gc39@cornell.edu

Received May 11, 2004

Abstract:

The alternating copolymerization of (R)- or (S)-limonene oxide and CO2 using -diiminate zinc acetate catalysts is reported. At 100 psi CO2 and 25 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.

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