Ionic liquids-SBA-15 hybrid catalysts for highly efficient and solvent-free synthesis of diphenyl carbonate

Abstract Diphenyl carbonate (DPC) is one of the versatile carbonates, and is often used for the production of polycarbonates. In recent years, the catalytic synthesis of DPC has become an important topic but the development of a highly active metal-free catalyst is a great challenge. Herein, a series of ionic liquids-SBA-15 hybrid catalysts with different functional groups have been developed for the synthesis of DPC under solvent-free condition, which are effective and clean instead of the metal-containing catalysts. It is found that in the presence of [SBA-15-IL-OH]Br catalyst, methyl phenyl carbonate (MPC) conversion of 80.5% along with 99.6% DPC selectivity is achieved, the TOF value is thrice higher than the best value reported by using transition metal-based catalysts. Moreover, the catalyst displays remarkable stability and recyclability. This work provides a new idea to design and prepare eco-friendly catalysts in a broad range of applications for the green synthesis of carbonates.