karbonaatsetes

Karbonaatsetes, or carbonate esters, are esters derived from carbonic acid and include both linear dialkyl carbonates and cyclic carbonates. Their general structure is R-O-CO-O-R', featuring an ester linkage between two alkyl or aryl groups. Linear carbonates such as dimethyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate are common solvents and reaction media, while cyclic carbonates like ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate are prominent as solvents and electrolyte components.

Linear dialkyl carbonates are typically produced by transesterification or carbonylation reactions involving alcohols and carbonate derivatives. Cyclic carbonates are often prepared by cyclization of diols with carbonyl sources or by coupling epoxides with carbon dioxide. The latter route, epoxide activation by CO2, is notable for enabling CO2 utilization in a value‑added product. Some carbonate esters, such as dimethyl carbonate, are valued as environmentally friendly solvents and as intermediates in polymer and plasticizer chemistry.

Common examples and applications include:

- Dimethyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate, used as solvents, reactants in polymer synthesis, and methylating or carbonylating agents.

- Ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate, widely used as high‑dielectric solvents or electrolyte components in lithium‑ion batteries.

- Polycarbonate polymers, where carbonate ester linkages form the repeating units, providing durable plastics with high clarity (e.g., those based on bisphenol A).

Safety and handling vary by compound. Phosgene‑based routes for carbonate esters are hazardous due to toxicity, while many dialkyl carbonates and cyclic carbonates are flammable and require standard industrial hygiene and engineering controls.

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