Striving for catalytically green processes in the 21st century

This topical review and analysis seeks to provide others with some insight to strategies for the development of new process technologies in the 21st century which align with the traditional desires of green and/or environmental chemistry. Rather then dwelling on existing approaches or step-wise developments, guidance is offered about those targets and approaches which offer the greatest reward and green benefits. Catalysis and catalysts are a key parts of multiple approaches, but those approaches must be taken with some anticipation about the vitality of the technological alternative that is considered in view of overall issues of economics, politics, societal demands, and total energy requirements. The importance of considering energy usage in designing and modifying new chemical processes will be emphasized. Examples will be given to illustrate the importance of considering the total energy input and output of any new alternative process. When this is done, it becomes apparent that several popular approaches are not really so green. Opportunities for improvement to existing products are discussed with a focus on seeking dramatic, breakthrough process improvements with minimal energy and materials costs. (C) 1999 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.