Current areas of interest in flow chemistry

• Standardised conditions for "named reactions"

  Several named reactions (eg Suzuki reactions, Ugi reactions) have been carried out with sucsess under flow conditions.  Developing "standardised" conditions under which these reactions can be repeatedly conducted is a key target.  Examples of some of these reactions can be seen here.

• "Microwave effect"

  Super-heating reactions (heating above atmospheric reflux temperature under pressure) is a key advantage of flow chemistry which can increase reaction rates in a similar way to those observered with microwaves.  Experiments showing how flow chemistry can produce similar effects to microwaves whilst retaining the ability to increase the reaction scale are welcomed.

• Integrated reaction and extraction

  The FLLEX system can be used to perform online aqueous work-up of reaction streams. Examples of reactions where this is effective are encouraged.

• Hazardous reactions

  The ability of flow reactors to rapidly remove heat allows hazardous reactions to be conducted at higher temperatures than traditionally used (increasing the reaction rate). Typical examples include PCl₃ quenches and nitrations.

• Nanoparticle synthesis

  Microreactors have shown application in nanoparticle synthesis - their unique micro dimensions and very rapid mixing give controlled and consistent particle size and/or covalent shell derivatisation.

• Solid Phase Chemistry

  Syrris flow chemistry systems include solid phase columns which can be used with catalysts, supported reagents and scavangers as can be seen here.

• Reactions not possible under batch conditions

  The almost instantaneous changes in temperature possible in flow chemistry give rise to some new and interesting reactions where reagents can be prepared at one temperature before being rapidly reacted at another.

• Hazardous materials

  Flow chemistry can be used to in-situe prepare hazardous materials and can therefore perform reactions too dangerous to be scaled in batch chemistry.  Examples include azide chemistry and preparation of diazomethane.