Abstract
Chemical reaction engineering principles are needed to successfully advance fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals manufacture, which is important to the global economy. Significant quantities of chemical wastes are generated in fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals manufacture relative to the mass of the products formed. Innovations in process intensification technology are needed to minimize waste, and water plays a key role. The reaction engineering of organic syntheses using water has broad and versatile utility. Organic synthesis in water could revolutionize both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis in continuous fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals where the reactants and the products remain soluble. Trade-off exists between water consumption in chemicals processing and the benefits of performing organic syntheses in water. Partnerships between chemists and chemical engineers are needed to drive innovations in science and engineering that harness water. The role of water in fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals manufacture is highlighted from a reaction engineering perspective.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 36-41 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Chimica Oggi/Chemistry Today |
| Volume | 32 |
| Issue number | 4 |
| State | Published - Jul 1 2014 |
Keywords
- Catalysis
- Green chemistry
- Process intensification
- Reactor design
- Waste treatment and waste minimization
- Water
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Chemistry