DOI

Modern laboratory practices demand safer, efficient, and more Green and sustainable solutions, especially given the often dangerous nature of chemicals used. This study introduces a technique addressing these challenges by encapsulating chemicals within 3D-printed polymeric cylinders designed for various organic transformations. The studied encapsulation method not only exhibits comparable yields with established methodologies but also significantly elevates laboratory safety and procedural efficiency. The specially designed capsules can be soluble in prevalent organic solvents, facilitating the controlled release of their chemical contents when subjected to reactions. Furthermore, the inherent compatibility of these capsules with multiple reagents and the feasibility of their recycling postreaction underscore their potential to set a new standard in sustainable laboratory practices. Beyond the method's technical benefits, its impact resonates within the realms of research and industry. Encapsulation technology presents a safer alternative to manual handling of volatile, toxic, and flammable reagents, thus mitigating potential hazards. This translates to a significant reduction in the risks associated with chemical handling while simultaneously simplifying traditionally time-consuming procedures. Varying the geometric and chemical properties of the capsules allows for the encapsulation of a diverse range of substances and reactions, demonstrating their adaptability. Given its transformative potential, this technique opens new opportunities for future endeavors in the chemical domain. The approach of encapsulating chemicals could contribute to an expected digital discovery paradigm shift, ushering in an era of streamlined, safer, and sustainable chemical practices. The potential benefits, from safety to sustainability, make this approach appealing to a broad spectrum of chemical applications.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)3776-3785
Number of pages10
JournalGreen Chemistry
Volume26
Issue number7
Early online date27 Feb 2024
DOIs
StatePublished - 27 Feb 2024

ID: 114600262