Friedel–Crafts Acylation Using Solar Irradiation

• Published in: ACS sustainable chemistry & engineering 2013-12, Vol.1 (12), p.1580-1583
• Main Authors: Agee, Brian M, Mullins, Gene, Swartling, Daniel J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2168-0485; 2168-0485
• DOI: 10.1021/sc4002802

In recent decades, scientists have attempted to make more environmentally friendly chemical synthesis procedures. One area of environmental concern is the amount of electricity required to complete an experiment. An effective means for minimizing the amount of electricity needed to drive chemical reactions to completion is proposed through the use of solar parabolic reflectors. The proposed solar reflectors are assembled by covering unused satellite dishes with Mylar tape, giving the satellite dish reflective properties when the dish is directed at the sun. The ability to use the solar reflector as the sole heat source for organic synthesis reactions is being considered. Comparative studies will be conducted using electrical supplies to compare the solar reflectors ability to generate heat to drive the chemical reactions to completion. Analysis of the products of the reactions will be analyzed using NMR and GC-MS. Preliminary research has shown that the solar reflector is capable of heating a substance to a temperature over 300 °C, which is more than capable to drive most organic synthesis reactions to completion. The synthesis of isobutyrophenone, which is synthesized through a Friedel–Crafts acylation of benzene, has been attempted using the solar reflector.