Micro-photochemistry: photochemistry in microstructured reactors. The new photochemistry of the future?

Abstract

The use of a confined space in which to carry out reactions has proven popular in recent years, as demonstrated by the large volume of work published on ‘molecular microreactors’ such as zeolites, micelles and nanoparticles. This article looks at reactions in microstructured reactors, also known as microchannelled reactors or microreactors. In general, these consist of a ‘chip’ with narrow channels etched into it. Microstructured reactors have been the subject of several review articles to date, focusing on preparation, types of reactions that may be carried out and on the potential for ‘green’ applications. However, the use of microstructured reactor technology in photochemistry has, until now, not been subject to review. This perspective aims to outline the work done to date in this area and in particular to demonstrate the advantages and future prospectives of this technology in photochemical processes. Photochemistry in microstructured reactors is an emerging area of interest and to date has demonstrated significant potential as a viable alternative to traditional photochemical synthesis.