Zn/Fe mixed oxide: Heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate from methyl carbamate and methanol

A series of Zn–Fe–O mixed oxides were prepared for the synthesis of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) from methyl carbamate and methanol. X-ray diffraction revealed that zinc ferrite crystal phase appeared and changed with different Zn/Fe molar ratio. The DMC yield could reach 30.7% under suitable conditions. In addition, elemental chemical analysis and the reusability test indicated that these catalysts presented good stability.