3-Bromo-1,1,1-trifluoro-2-propanol assisted chemical fixation of CO2 and epoxides

•3-Bromo-1,1,1-trifluoro-2-propanol was proved to be an excellent hydrogen-bonding donor for CO2 transformation.•Synergistic effects of hydroxyl group and iodide anion render the reaction performing at 0.5 MPa CO2.•The reaction could be carried out under solvent- and metal-free conditions.•A broad scope of cyclic carbonates could be obtained in high yield.