Abstract

A number of carbamates were synthesised through a halogen-free process by reacting amines with symmetrical and unsymmetrical carbonates. The results obtained showed a specific trend of preferred leaving groups (in the dialkyl carbonates) depending on whether a catalyst or a base was used. On the other hand, investigations conducted on the preferred entering groups (amines) for the synthesis of carbamates showed the same trend regardless of whether a catalyst or a base was used. Finally, in accordance with the results obtained, it was possible to synthesise sterically hindered carbamates in high yield by transesterification of methyl carbamate with a sterically hindered alcohol.