Reduction of Cyclic and Linear Organic Carbonates Using a Readily Available Magnesium Catalyst

Efficient reduction of cyclic and linear organic carbonates catalyzed by a readily available earth alkaline catalyst has been achieved. The described homogenous reaction based on a ligand-free magnesium catalyst provides an indirect route for the conversion of CO2 into valuable alcohols. The reaction proceeds with high yields under mild reaction conditions, with low catalyst loading and short reaction times, and shows a broad applicability toward various linear and cyclic carbonates. Additionally, it can be applied for the depolymerization of polycarbonates.