Green Chemistry
Articles tagged with Green Chemistry
Sustainable electrosynthesis enables production of amines directly from airborne nitrogen
Scientists have created an electrochemical strategy capable of producing amines directly from molecular nitrogen, eliminating complex chemical processes and reducing energy consumption. The new method uses a catalyst to facilitate the conversion of N2 into nitrogen-containing organic molecules.
Light-Activated Copper(II) Complexes for Efficient anti-Markovnikov Alkene Hydration
Limonene enables highly efficient asymmetric synthesis via the mitsunobu reaction
Researchers discovered that limonene can be used as a reaction solvent for the Mitsunobu reaction, allowing efficient separation and purification. This characteristic promotes high reaction efficiency and simplified purification, making it an attractive alternative to traditional methods.
Native bacteria may break down dioxins without genetic modification
Researchers have discovered that native soil bacteria can degrade persistent pollutants like dioxins without genetic engineering. Using decoy molecules, the bacteria's natural enzymes are tricked into breaking down these toxic compounds.
Team reports α-allylation of simple ketones and allyl alcohols on mesoporous silica
The team successfully developed a multifunctional catalyst incorporating palladium and copper complexes on mesoporous silica, enabling the efficient activation of ketones and allyl alcohols. This process accelerates the allylation reaction by up to a factor of 15.5 compared to previous catalysts.
Researchers warn of risks posed by ‘contaminants of emerging concern’ found in crops, agricultural soil
A new study reveals that even low concentrations of pharmaceuticals, microplastics, and other chemicals can subtly alter plant physiology and disrupt soil health, posing wider environmental and human health risks. The review emphasizes the need for stronger regulation and redesign of chemicals to make them safer.
The secret lives of catalysts: How microscopic networks power reactions
Researchers visualized activity across a platinum catalyst with unprecedented detail, revealing coordinated, interconnected systems. Individual crystal grains specialize in different chemical steps, and cooperative electron flows enhance overall reaction efficiency.
Synergistic ultramicropore-confined and electronic-state modulation strategies in sustainable lignin-derived hard carbon for robust sodium-ion batteries
Researchers develop synergistic ultramicropore-confined and electronic-state modulation strategies in sustainable lignin-derived hard carbon to achieve robust sodium-ion batteries. The material exhibits high reversible capacity and initial Coulombic efficiency, making it a promising anode candidate.
New technology could use sunlight to break down ‘forever chemicals’
Scientists have developed a new catalyst that uses sunlight to break down polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of water-repellent chemicals linked to increased cancer risk. The technology could be scaled up for detection or removal from the environment and human body.
Green chemistry: Friendly bacteria can unlock hidden metabolic pathways in plant cell cultures
Researchers have discovered that endophytic bacteria can coexist with plant cells without harming them, triggering the production of previously unattainable compounds. This method has the potential to expand the diversity of obtainable plant-derived compounds for various industries.
Scientists solve 66 million-year-old mystery of how Earth’s greenhouse age ended
Researchers discovered that a significant drop in calcium levels in the ocean led to a massive decrease in carbon dioxide, driving global cooling and ending the planet's greenhouse era. The study suggests that changes in seawater chemistry played a key role in shaping climate history.
UBC researchers develop cleaner way to make rayon-type fibres
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a solvent-efficient technique to produce rayon, reducing chemical use by up to 70%. The process uses microfibrillated cellulose and dissolved cellulose to create continuous fibres with improved sustainability.
Technology boosts hop production in Brazil and paves the way for new bioproducts
A Brazilian project using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction boosts hop production efficiency and reduces logistics costs, increasing beer quality. The new method extracts aromatic and bioactive compounds with up to 72% α-acids, maintaining the hops' unique flavor.
Scientists unveil mechanism behind greener ammonia production
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University reveal how copper particles create in mid-reaction, converting nitrite ions to ammonia. This insight promises leaps forward in developing new industrial chemistry for greener ammonia production.
2025 Tata Transformation Prize recognizes three Indian scientists driving global solutions for people and the planet
The 2025 Tata Transformation Prize recognizes Padubidri V. Shivaprasad's epigenetic engineering for climate-resilient rice, Balasubramanian Gopal's sustainable bio-manufacturing platform using E. coli bacteria, and Ambarish Ghosh's cancer-targeting magnetic nanorobots.
Harnessing algae for a greener way to create functional gold nanoparticles
Researchers at The University of Osaka have developed an eco-friendly method to produce highly stable and biocompatible gold nanoparticles using microalgae. This breakthrough enables the creation of safer and more effective cancer therapies with fewer side effects for patients.
A step closer to a sustainable method of producing ethylene
Scientists have identified an ancient enzyme called methylthio-alkane reductase (MAR) that breaks down organic sulfur compounds to create ethylene. The discovery opens the door for understanding how these enzymes work and potentially harnessing them for sustainable biofuel production.
Decoding how pH controls the chemistry of clean energy
A recent study has unraveled the atomic-scale mechanisms behind pH effects on electrochemical reactions, paving the way for rational catalyst design. The research reveals that interfacial electric fields and molecular interactions play a critical role in determining reaction rates and selectivity.
Hanbat National University researchers present new technique to boost solid oxide fuel cell performance
Hanbat National University researchers have developed a new method for enhancing the performance of solid oxide fuel cells by inducing cobalt exsolution in high-temperature oxidizing atmospheres. This process results in improved electrochemical properties and higher oxygen reduction reaction activity, making it a promising direction fo...
Towards efficient room-temperature fluorine recovery from fluoropolymers
Researchers developed a novel defluorination method that utilizes sodium dispersion to degrade PTFE and recover fluoride ion under mild conditions, achieving up to 98% fluorine recovery. The new method offers an efficient and environmentally friendly approach to PTFE recycling.
Innovative hydrogel for soilless farming, tackling drought and pollution
Researchers at IIT and UniBz developed a biodegradable hydrogel that retains water and supports plant growth in drought conditions, enabling minimal water usage. The material also exhibits potential for real-time monitoring of plant health and soil conditions.
Chung-Ang University develops chloride-resistant Ru nanocatalysts for sustainable hydrogen production from seawater
Researchers developed chloride-resistant Ru nanocatalysts to overcome limitations in seawater electrolysis. The g-C3N4-mediated pyrolysis strategy creates a crystalline-amorphous junction with ultrafine Ru dispersion, enabling efficient and durable hydrogen production.
The UJI spin-off Molecular Sustainable Solutions receives an investment from BeAble Capital to boost its disinfection and sterilization methods
Molecular Sustainable Solutions has developed more powerful and sustainable disinfection methods capable of tackling resistant microorganisms. The company will accelerate technology maturation with the investment, strengthening its position in public health and sustainability.
A novel technology to control crystallinity of pore walls
A team of researchers from Waseda University has developed a novel technology to control the crystallinity of pore walls in single-crystalline nanoporous metal oxides. The method, known as chemical-vapor-based confined crystal growth (C3), allows for simultaneous control of the material's composition, porous structure, and crystal size.
Cleaner, cooler, and cheaper: Green chemistry gets a low-temperature oxidation breakthrough
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a catalyst system that converts alcohols to valuable chemical products at lower temperatures using safer iodine compounds. The new system eliminates toxic heavy metal waste, cuts reaction temperatures by over half, and reduces energy costs.
Revolutionizing hydrogen fluoride synthesis: Scalable and safer generation
Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a scalable and safer method to generate hydrogen fluoride, eliminating the need for pressurized HF gas and corrosive liquid reagents. The new fluorinating complexes can be used for pharmaceuticals, functional materials, and molecular probes.
ERC Proof of Concept grants: Innovation to benefit green technology, drug development, biomedical imaging, materials science
The European Research Council has awarded three ERC Proof of Concept grants to Göttingen University professors, enabling the development of initiatives that can benefit Europe's economy and society. The projects focus on harnessing renewable energy, reducing chemical waste, and improving biomedical image analysis.
Scientists achieve net-negative greenhouse gas emissions via electrified catalysis
Researchers have developed a novel electrified catalysis strategy that removes more CO2 and CH4 from the atmosphere than it emits, resulting in net-negative greenhouse gas emissions. The process converts these compounds into syngas with an impressive energy utilization rate of 80%.
Inking heterometallic nanosheets: A scalable breakthrough for coating, electronics, and electrocatalyst applications
Heterometallic nanosheets with defined structures can be synthesized in a single-phase reaction, enabling their use as coatings, electronic devices, and catalysts. The discovery paves the way for mass-producing these nanomaterials using printing technology.
Semiconductors show promise for efficient carbon capture and utilization
A new palladium-loaded a-IGZO catalyst achieved over 91% selectivity when converting CO2 to methanol, leveraging electronic properties of semiconductors. The study demonstrates novel design principles for sustainable catalysis based on electronic structure engineering.
SUNER-C concludes after three years dedicated to unlocking the renewable energy future
The EU-funded SUNER-C project developed a technological roadmap and community mapping tool to accelerate the transition of solar fuels and chemicals from lab to industrial applications, fostering collaboration among stakeholders and supporting the EU's carbon neutrality objectives.
From lab to market: how renewable polymers could transform medicine
The study highlights the challenges of commercializing renewable polymers, but also emphasizes the potential of chemical modification to improve their properties for clinical use. The research aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these sustainable materials in biomedical practice.
Green chemistry milestone: fluorine complexes from common fluoride salt
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology, Japan, has developed a novel fluorinating quaternary ammonium complex with extremely low hygroscopicity, making it an excellent reagent for electrochemical fluorination. The new agent was synthesized by combining KF with tetrabutylammonium bromide and showed promise in pharma...
Scientists use AI to make green ammonia even greener
Researchers have developed a more efficient method for producing green ammonia using artificial intelligence and machine learning. The new process achieves a sevenfold improvement in production rate while being nearly 100% efficient, making it a viable alternative to traditional methods.
Fatty acids as solvents: Extracting silver from electronic waste
Researchers develop new recycling concept using fatty acids to extract silver from electronic waste, making it financially viable. The process uses light and diluted hydrogen peroxide, resulting in a sustainable separation method.
Understanding carbon traps
Researchers have discovered a zinc-based metal-organic framework (MOF) that efficiently captures CO2 while resisting interference from water. The study reveals the unique adaptability of CALF-20 under varying conditions, making it a promising solution for industrial carbon capture
A smarter way to make sulfones: Using molecular oxygen and a functional catalyst
Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo developed a novel catalyst that efficiently produces sulfones at low temperatures, achieving high selectivity and reducing precious metal consumption. The new SrMn₁₋xRu_xO₃ catalyst offers significant advantages over conventional systems, making it suitable for various industries.
Difficult and costly energy transition unless the EU invests in biomass
Biomass is crucial for Europe's ability to reach its climate targets, providing both energy and negative emissions. Excluding biomass from the European energy system would increase costs by 169 billion Euros per year.
Green phosphonate chemistry – Does it exist?
The EU has listed phosphorus as a critical raw material due to supply disruptions and lack of substitutes. Green chemistry methods can contribute to more efficient production and use of multifunctional phosphorus compounds, including phosphonates.
Mizzou researchers invent a new tool to help lower the cost of tomorrow’s medicine
Researchers developed AshPhos, a ligand that facilitates the formation of carbon-nitrogen bonds using inexpensive materials. The tool has potential applications in pharmaceuticals, nanomaterials, and degrading PFAS pollutants.
Trash to treasure: Leveraging industrial waste to store energy
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed an efficient storage agent for sustainable energy solutions using triphenylphosphine oxide (TPPO), a well-known chemical byproduct. The team's 'one-pot' reaction method enables the transformation of TPPO into a usable product with powerful potential to store energy.
From CO2 to acetaldehyde: Towards greener industrial chemistry
Researchers have developed a novel copper-based catalyst that can selectively convert CO2 into acetaldehyde with an impressive efficiency of 92%. The breakthrough provides a greener and more sustainable way to produce acetaldehyde, potentially replacing the Wacker process and reducing CO2 emissions.
Plasma-derived atomic hydrogen advances low-temperature CO2 methanation at high yield
Scientists developed a new method using plasma-derived atomic hydrogen to enable low-temperature carbon dioxide methanation. The findings show that PDAH can improve methane yield at low temperatures and provide a promising avenue for efficient CO2 recycling.
Synthesis of a cost-effective, high-durability non-noble metal alloy anode as an alternative to iridium oxide anodes
Researchers developed a high-entropy alloy anode composed of nine non-precious metal elements, demonstrating remarkable durability and low production cost. The new anode outperforms conventional iridium oxide anodes in organic hydride electrolytic synthesis, potentially advancing large-scale hydrogen supply chain development.
People’s exposure to toxic chemicals declined in the U.S. following listing under California law
A study found that levels of toxic chemicals in people's bodies decreased both in California and nationwide following the listing of over 850 chemicals under Proposition 65. This decline suggests that the law has led to widespread reformulation of products, reducing exposure to harmful substances.
An efficient way to hydrogenate nitrogen-containing aromatic compounds has been developed
Researchers at Yokohama National University have developed an efficient way to hydrogenate nitrogen-containing aromatic compounds, reducing the industry's environmental footprint. The new method uses water and renewable electricity as energy sources, achieving high efficiency and scalability.
Researchers discover smarter way to recycle polyurethane
A research team from Aarhus University has found a method to recycle polyurethane foam into its original components, polyol and isocyanate. The new process recovers up to 82 weight percent of the material, making it possible to reuse them as raw materials in new PUR products.
Synthetic fuels and chemicals from CO₂: Ten experiments in parallel
Empa researchers have developed a system to investigate up to ten different reaction conditions for producing synthetic fuels from CO2. The system accelerates the discovery process by generating a large number of high-quality datasets, enabling scientists to make accelerated discoveries.
Green chemists produce gold particles (and hydrogen) in water
Researchers at Flinders University have discovered a novel method to produce gold nanoparticles in water using a vortex fluidic device, eliminating the need for toxic chemicals. The technique also generates hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide through contact electrification reactions.
New polystyrene recycling process could be world’s first to be both economical and energy-efficient
Engineers have modelled a new way to recycle polystyrene that could make the material reusable. The technique uses pyrolysis to break down polystyrene into parts that can be reformed into new pieces of the material, reducing energy consumption and increasing yield.
Computing takes the guesswork out of chemistry
A team of researchers from Osaka University used machine learning to identify a highly effective boron-based catalyst for chemical transformations of amino acids and peptides. The new catalyst generates only water as a coproduct and promotes high-yield reactions with minimal environmental impact. By leveraging computational methods, th...
Toxic chemicals can be detected with new AI method
A new AI method developed by Swedish researchers can identify toxic substances based on their chemical structure, potentially replacing animal testing. The method has been shown to be more accurate and broadly applicable than existing computational tools, offering a promising alternative for environmental research and authorities.
UIC engineers ‘symphonize’ cleaner ammonia production
University of Illinois Chicago engineers have developed a new ammonia production process that meets several green targets. The process combines nitrogen gas and ethanol with a charged lithium electrode, producing ammonia at low temperatures and regenerating materials with each cycle. If scaled up, the process could produce ammonia at 6...
Efficient oxidation of hydrophobic aromatic organic substrates in water
The team developed a 'catch-and-release' mechanism to oxidize hydrophobic compounds, selectively and efficiently producing hydrophilic products under mild conditions. This breakthrough enables the selective two-electron oxidation of anthracene and aromatic compounds from mixtures, solving a long-standing challenge.
Ammonia attracts the shipping industry, but researchers warn of its risks
A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.
Making an important industrial synthesis more environmentally friendly
Scientists from Osaka University and collaborators identify environmentally friendly reaction conditions for producing peracids, overcoming wasteful and dangerous chemical synthesis methods. The optimized process uses sunlight and oxygen, allowing for safe and cost-effective production of essential chemicals.
A chemical reaction key to various industries just got greener
A research team at Osaka University has found a way to synthesize alkylamines in a sustainable and cost-effective manner, using a novel catalyst system that produces only water as a byproduct.
Huddersfield professor leads £1.75m project to transform textile waste into recycled plastics
A £1.75m project led by Professor Chenyu Du aims to develop new processes for recovering polyester and cellulose from mixed cotton and polyester fibres. The goal is to create a roadmap towards net-zero for the textiles industry, reducing plastic waste and increasing recycling rates.
Stockholm University leads Bio-LUSH for development of new sustainable bio-based fibers for a circular bioeconomy
The four-year Bio-LUSH project optimizes biomass value chains and develops green processing methods to extract high-quality fibers from diverse plants. The initiative supports the establishment of a sustainable bio-fibrous economy in Europe by utilizing underexplored biomass feedstocks.