Modular microreaction systems for homogeneously and heterogeneously catalyzed chemical synthesis

Until now, microreaction devices designed for a specific type of reaction were used mainly for highly exothermic, very fast reactions. Described is a modular microreaction system and its application to representative homogeneous and heterogeneous reactions important in organic synthesis. The modular microreaction system allows continuous flow processes to be optimized and employed effectively in the chemical laboratory. The modular microreaction systems proved also versatile for syntheses requiring moderate reaction times, thus extending their application to a large fraction of organic reactions. The use of the modular and cleanable microreaction systems to rapidly develop optimized reaction conditions provides an excellent basis for the development of many chemical transformations scalable from milligram to ton production quantities.