The unparalleled potential of substrate‐induced reactivity modes in the catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide and alcohol or amine functionalized epoxides is discussed in relation to more conventional epoxide/CO2 coupling strategies. This conceptually new approach allows for a substantial extension of the substitution degree and functionality of cyclic carbonate/carbamate products, which are predominant products in the area of non‐reductive CO2 transformations. Apart from the creation of an advanced library of CO2‐based heterocyclic products and intermediates, also the underlying mechanistic reasons for this novel reactivity profile are debated with a prominent role for the design and structure of the involved catalysts.
Unlocking the Potential of Substrate‐Directed CO2 Activation and Conversion: Pushing the Boundaries of Catalytic Cyclic Carbonate and Carbamate Formation
ChemSusChem 2020, 13 (23), 6056-6065, DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202002246.