Methylchloroformate synthesis via direct interaction of Pd di(methoxycarbonyl) complexes with CuCl2: utilization in the synthesis of carbonates and carbamates

ClCOOCH3 has been obtained in very good yield by -action of [PdL2(COOCH3)2] [L2 = 2,2'-bipyridine (bipy) or 1,10-phenanthroline (phen)] with CuCl2. The in situ reaction of ClCOOCH3 with alcohols or amines produces carbonates or carbamates.