Cyclic Carbonates as Green Alternative Solvents for the Heck Reaction

What is it about?

The Heck reaction is an example of a cross-coupling reaction that is used to make carbon-carbon bonds when producing drug molecules and similar fine chemicals. The reaction is performed in a solution requiring a reproductive toxic solvent (DMF or NMP). Cyclic carbonates are non-toxic solvents that can be made from waste carbon dioxide and can be used instead of less desirable solvents in the Heck reaction.

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