title: A readily synthesized and highly active epoxide carbonylation catalyst based on a chromium porphyrin framework: expanding the range of available beta-lactones.
abstract: [reaction: see text] Catalytic carbonylation of epoxides to beta-lactones was effected by a highly active and selective bimetallic catalyst comprised of a chromium(III) porphyrin cation and a cobalt tetracarbonyl anion. The complex is readily synthesized from commercially available compounds in high yield. Carbonylation of numerous linear epoxides, as well as bicyclic epoxides derived from 8- and 12-membered hydrocarbons, proceeded with high activity, selectivity, and yield.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Baker Laboratory, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-1301, USA.
authors.forename: Joseph A R
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Schmidt
authors.forename: Viswanath
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Mahadevan
authors.forename: Yutan D Y L
authors.initials: YD
authors.lastname: Getzler
authors.forename: Geoffrey W
authors.initials: GW
authors.lastname: Coates