Computational Study of the Ir-Catalyzed Formation of Allyl Carbamates from CO2

Abstract

We have employed computational methods to investigate the iridium-catalyzed allylic substitution leading to the formation of enantioenriched allyl carbamates from carbon dioxide (CO₂). The reaction occurs in several steps, with initial formation of an iridium-allyl, followed by nucleophilic attack by the carbamate formed in situ from CO₂ and an amine. A detailed isomeric analysis shows that the rate-determining step differs for the (R)- and (S)-pathways. These insights are essential for understanding reactions involving enantioselective formation of allyl carbamates from CO₂.