Green catalysis: Sustainable alternatives for Industrial Chemical Reactions

Abstract

Green catalysis has become a key strategy to achieve more sustainable industrial chemical processes by decreasing energy consumption, waste, the use of hazardous materials and environmental impact. In traditional industrial processes, toxic reagents, corrosive solvents, high reaction temperatures and non-renewable feedstocks are often used, which poses great environmental and economic concerns. Green catalytic technologies involve more efficient use of the reaction, and selective conversion of raw materials to valuable products under relatively mild operating conditions. In this paper, the role of green catalysis in the promotion of sustainable industrial chemical reactions is discussed, especially for heterogeneous catalysts, homogeneous catalysts, biocatalysts, photocatalysts and emerging nanostructured catalytic systems. It investigates how catalytic processes can increase atom economy, minimise unwanted by-products, increase selectivity and help to use renewable resources. The study also takes into account the utilization of Green Catalysis for Pharmaceuticals, Petrochemicals, Polymers, Conversion of biomass and Environmental remediation. Specific focus is on catalyst reusability, process intensification, choice of solvents, energy efficiency and minimisation of greenhouse-gas emissions. However, some challenges like stability of the catalyst, scalability, production cost, availability of the material and integration of the material in the industry are remaining challenges for the broader penetration. To accelerate the transition towards a cleaner chemical industry, the paper suggests a research approach that is interdisciplinary, innovative catalyst design and supportive industrial policies through life-cycle assessment are required. To sum up, green catalysis is a promising method for reaching the goals of sustainability of the industrial sector while paying special attention to environmental responsibility.