Mild and efficient capture and functionalisation of CO₂ using silver(I) oxide and application to ¹³C-labelled dialkyl carbonates

A high yielding three-component reaction between β-iodo ethylamine derivatives, MeOH and gaseous CO2 at ambient temperatures and pressures is reported using silver(I) oxide. Unfunctionalised alkyl iodides were also found to be effective in this transformation and their optimisation is also described. To highlight the ease and control with which gaseous CO2 can be captured and functionalised under mild conditions, the reaction was performed using 13C-enriched CO2 to afford specifically 13C-carbonyl-labelled dialkyl carbonates with exquisite control of the isotopic purity in good yields and without the need for specialised equipment.