Highly efficient cyclotrimerization of isocyanates using N-heterocyclic olefins under bulk conditions.

With a catalyst loading as low as 0.005%, high to excellent yields of isocyanurates could be achieved from N-heterocyclic olefin mediated organocatalytic cyclotrimerization of a wide range of isocyanates under bulk conditions. Experimental details coupled with structural characterization of the key intermediates led to comprehensive mechanistic studies of cyclotrimerization.