Solvent-free reactivity in the undergraduate organic laboratory

Abstract

This review highlights progress made since 2000 in the development of solvent-free organic reactions for student use. It is directed at university instructors to illustrate the broad scope of solventless reactivity possible in undergraduate laboratories. Eliminating a reaction medium directly addresses the Twelve Principles of Green Chemistry and is a focal point of contemporary industrial research. Experimental conditions are straightforward to implement and include reactant grinding, room temperature stirring, microwave irradiation, and conventional heating. A wide range of functional group transformations is easily achievable. Solvent-free reactions are often complete in a matter of minutes and routinely require simplistic work-up and purification protocols. Procedures are compiled from educational resources (primarily pedagogical journals and laboratory manuals) and corollary green experimental elements emphasized where possible. © 2009 Taylor & Francis.