Pd/C: an efficient and heterogeneous protocol for oxidative carbonylation of diols to cyclic carbonate

The present protocol involves highly efficient and practical approach for the synthesis of cyclic carbonate via oxidative carbonylation of diols, glycerol, and its derivatives using Pd/C as a heterogeneous, inexpensive, and recyclable catalyst. The effect of various reaction parameters, such as solvent, base, time, and temperature was investigated and applied for the synthesis of value added cyclic carbonates in a good to excellent yield within shorter reaction time. The developed catalytic system circumvents the use of ligand and dehydrating agent with an additional advantage of palladium catalyst recovery and reuse for up to four consecutive cycles. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.