Synthesis of functionalized cyclic carbonate monomers using a versatile pentafluorophenyl carbonate intermediate

Functionalized cyclic carbonate monomers were synthesized via a two step route featuring a novel cyclic carbonate intermediate possessing a pendent activated pentafluorophenyl carbonate group (MTC-PFPC). The pentafluorophenyl carbonate of MTC-PFPC was selectively substituted with suitable nucleophiles such as alcohols, amines and thiols generating functionalized cyclic carbonates in moderate to high yield. © 2014 The Royal Society of Chemistry.