Reviews and Accounts ARKIVOC 2012 (i) 610-628 Page 610 © ARKAT-USA, Inc. Synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and carbon dioxide using bimetallic aluminium(salen) complexes Michael North School of Chemistry, Bedson Building, University of Newcastle, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK E-mail: Michael.north@ncl.ac.uk Abstract Over the last six years, highly active catalysts for the synthesis of cyclic carbonates from epoxides and carbon dioxide have been developed. Initial studies showed that bimetallic aluminium(salen) complexes [Al(salen)] 2 O formed active catalysts and kinetic studies allowed the catalytic cycle to be determined. The catalysts could be immobilized on silica, allowing them to be used in a gas phase flow reactor as well as in batch reactors. The compatibility of the catalysts with waste carbon dioxide present in power station flue gas has been investigated and studies to enhance the commercial applicability of the catalysts by reducing the cost of their production carried out. Keywords: Carbon dioxide, epoxide, cyclic carbonate, catalyst, aluminium, salen Table of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Catalyst Discovery 3. Reaction Mechanism 4. One-Component and Immobilized Catalysts 5. Use of Waste Carbon Dioxide 6. Catalyst Cost Reduction 7. Conclusions 8. Acknowledgements 9. References 1. Introduction The world currently generates most of its energy by the combustion of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) and despite efforts to develop alternative, renewable energy sources, fossil fuels are