Reactions of propargylic alcohols with CO2 in a [BMIm][PhSO3]/CuCl catalytic system to produce the corresponding R-methylene cyclic carbonates were conducted with high yields. Mild reaction conditions, enhanced rates, improved yields, and recyclable ionic liquid catalyst systems are the remarkable features exhibited in this process. Furthermore, the use of large amounts of tertiary amines as well as nitrogen-containing organic solvent as employed in previously studies was avoided.

★★★★☆ Yanlong Gu, Feng Shi, and Youquan Deng. J. Org. Chem. 2004, 69, 391-394.