CARBONYLATION OF EPOXIDES

摘要

The invention relates a process for the carbonylation of epoxides by reaction with carbon monoxide at elevated pressure and temperature in the presence of a catalyst system comprising a source o.f cobalt and a hydroxy substituted pyridine compound, whereby .beta.-propiolactones and/or derivatives thereof, such as .beta.-propiolactone polymers, .beta.-hydroxy carboxylic acids and esters, and .beta.-alkoxy carboxylic acids and esters, are produced.