Ionic Liquid as Catalysts in the Cycloaddition of CO₂ to Styrene Oxide in Supercritical and Subcritical States

Author

Joy Mwalimu, Western Michigan University

Date of Award

6-2005

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Chemistry

First Advisor

Dr. John E. Chateauneuf

Second Advisor

Dr. Marc W. Perkovic

Third Advisor

Dr. James J. Kiddle

Access Setting

Masters Thesis-Open Access

Abstract

Supercritical fluids (SCFs) have fascinated researchers ever since the discovery of a critical temperature more than a century ago.¹ Initial studies focused mainly on the physical properties of supercritical phases.² However, their use as reaction media has sparked mainly during the last five to ten years.²

The coupling of CO₂ and Ionic Liquids (ILs) in the synthesis of cyclic carbonates comes from an increasing need for environmentally and toxicologically benign processes for the production of high-value compounds. In my research, CO₂ was utilized as both a replacement solvent and a C₁ feedstock in its fixation to styrene oxide to yield styrene carbonate. Alkali metal salts, quaternary ammomum salts and l -alkyl-3- methylimidazolium based ILs have been examined as possible catalysts for the reaction under various temperature and pressure conditions. Phase behavior studies by UV-vis have helped us understand the effect of CO₂ pressure on the % conversion. NMR, IR and GC-MS have been used to monitor and identify reaction products.

Results strongly indicate a highly efficient, more environmentally friendly synthetic process.

Recommended Citation

Mwalimu, Joy, "Ionic Liquid as Catalysts in the Cycloaddition of CO₂ to Styrene Oxide in Supercritical and Subcritical States" (2005). Masters Theses. 4877.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4877