Zn–N3 complexes for the cycloaddition of epoxides with CO 2 at atmospheric pressure

Eight Zn–N3 complexes 1a–1h were synthesized and exhibited high activity and high selectivity under mild conditions. The proposed mechanism was explored through FT-IR, UV-vis, and HRMS, and [ZnLCl 2 I] − Bu 4 N + was demonstrated as the active intermediate.