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Green Synthesis of Organics and Nanomaterials and Sustainable Applications of Nano-Catalysts
Citation:
VARMA, R. S. Green Synthesis of Organics and Nanomaterials and Sustainable Applications of Nano-Catalysts. Presented at Organic Synthesis and Human Well Being: Emerging Opportunities and Challenges, Hyderabad, INDIA, August 01 - 04, 2010.
Impact/Purpose:
To inform EPA
Description:
The presentation summarizes our green chemical synthesis activity involving benign alternatives, such as the use of supported reagents, and greener reaction medium in aqueous or solvent-free conditions.1 The synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, coupling reactions, and a variety of name reactions2 are the main beneficiaries as exemplified by the synthetic reactions catalyzed by basic water or polystyrene sulfonic acid (PSSA) in aqueous media in conjunction with microwave (MW) irradiation.2 Vitamins B1, B2, C, and tea and wine polyphenols which function both as reducing and capping agents, provide extremely simple, one-pot, green synthetic methods to bulk quantities of nanomaterials in water.3a Shape-controlled synthesis of noble nanostructures via MW-assisted spontaneous reduction of noble metal salts using sugars will be presented.3b A general method has been developed for the cross-linking reaction of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) with metallic systems; bimetallic systems,3c and SWNT, MWNT, and C-60.3d The strategy is extended to the formation of biodegradable carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) composite films with noble nanometals3e wherein metal decoration and alignment of carbon nanotubes is possible using MW approach.3f Shape-controlled bulk synthesis of Ag and Fe nanorods in poly (ethylene glycol) has been achieved using microwaves.3g MW hydrothermal process delivers magnetic nanoferrites4 and micro-pine structured catalysts are obtainable in water from readily available metal salts.5 Sustainable route to nano particles using polyphenols from waste,6 their applications in catalysis,7,8 toxicity9,10 and environmental remediation11 will be highlighted.