Zeolitic imidazolate framework as efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of ethyl methyl carbonate

A zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) was developed as a novel efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of ethyl methyl carbonate from dimethyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate. ZIF-8 was characterized by element analysis, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), temperature programmed desorption (TPD), N2 adsorption–desorption and thermogravimetric analysis. The effects of catalyst amount, temperature and reaction time on the yield of ethyl methyl carbonate were also tested. The results showed that ZIF-8 performed excellent activity, selectivity and reusability under mild reaction conditions.

Graphical abstractThe zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) was developed as a novel efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of ethyl methyl carbonate from dimethyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate. Under optimal reaction conditions, the yield of EMC reached at 50.7%. After simple separation, ZIF-8 can be reused at least 3 times without viewable loss of activity, and the framework of ZIF-8 was well retained.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (111 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights► ZIF-8 was developed as a novel efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of ethyl methyl carbonate. ► ZIF-8 performed excellent activity, selectivity and reusability. ► The framework of ZIF-8 contains acid and basic bi-active centers. ► The framework of ZIF-8 is well retained in the title reaction system.