Catalysis for green chemistry

Abstract

The use of heterogenization as a method for achieving clean synthesis is discussed. The chemical modification of mesoporous solids can be used to make a range of catalysts, including solid acids and bases, and stable metal complexes for selective oxidations and other reactions. By avoiding an aqueous quench stage in the separation, the heterogenization of catalysts and reagents can lead to substantial reductions in waste produced in organic chemical manufacturing processes.