Themed collection 2024 Green Chemistry Reviews
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Glycerol and its derivatives as potential C-3 bio-based building blocks for accessing active pharmaceutical ingredients
Exploring the potential of renewable glycerol and its derivatives for the preparation of active pharmaceutical ingredients in light of regulatory constraints.
Green Chem., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01957A
Challenges and perspectives on using acidic ionic liquids for biodiesel production via reactive distillation
Biodiesel, known as a renewable fuel, is an environmentally friendly energy source derived from animal and vegetable oils, as well as recycled oil.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 7718-7731
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01526F
A promise to a sustainable future: 10 years of the Green Chemistry Commitment at Beyond Benign
The Green Chemistry Commitment (GCC) was founded in 2013 to host a community of practice around green chemistry in higher education. 10 years later, the GCC empowers a worldwide community to use chemistry tools to create a sustainable planet.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6983-6993
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00575A
Ionic liquid-stabilized metal oxoclusters: from design to catalytic application
This perspective provides the design, stability and unique properties regarding ionic liquid-stabilized metal oxoclusters and their application in catalysis, and also illustrates the future development of ionic liquid-stabilized metal oxoclusters.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5127-5149
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00515E
A perspective on renewable production of amino acids from biomass through the chemocatalytic method
This perspective showcases recent advances in amino acid synthesis from biomass through the chemocatalytic method.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4468-4476
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00846D
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Polyester biodegradability: importance and potential for optimisation
To meet EU CO2 emission targets, we need to replace most fossil-derived plastics with renewable alternatives. To stop endless pollution by accumulating non degradable plastics we need future plastics to be closed-loop recyclable and/or biodegradable.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3698-3716
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04489K
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Advancing sustainable end-of-life strategies for photovoltaic modules with silicon reclamation for lithium-ion battery anodes
Upcycling silicon from waste solar panels into Li-ion batteries as anodes is a potential solution to handle the ever-growing solar waste.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3688-3697
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00357H
A perspective on nitrogen-doped carbon in 5-hydroxymethylfurfural oxidation
This manuscript provides basic knowledge regarding nitrogen-doped carbon materials and its application in the oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), and discusses the future development of nitrogen-doped carbon materials.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3139-3145
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00104D
The first-row transition metal-catalysed enantioconvergent radical Suzuki–Miyaura C(sp3)–C coupling of racemic alkyl halides
This perspective highlights recent advances and provides an outlook on future developments in the first-row transition metal catalysed enantioconvergent radical Suzuki–Miyaura C(sp3)−C coupling of racemic alkyl halides.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 2525-2533
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC02793G
On the role of surfactants: rethinking “aqueous” chemistry
Some of the latest technological developments involving chemistry in water are discussed.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 739-752
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03875K
Advances in photochemical/electrochemical synthesis of heterocyclic compounds from carbon dioxide
Green Chem., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC02829E
Towards the sustainable production of biomass-derived materials with smart functionality: a tutorial review
Towards the sustainable production of biomass-derived materials with smart functionality.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 9075-9103
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01771D
Covalent Organic Frameworks as Heterogeneous Photocatalysts for Cross-Coupling Reactions
Green Chem., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC03467H
The development of lignin towards a natural and sustainable platform for optical materials
An overview and perspectives on the development of lignin as a raw material for optical materials are provided with the objective of opening up a new avenue for lignin valorization.
Green Chem., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC02944E
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Balancing computational chemistry's potential with its environmental impact
Digital chemistry methods accelerated discoveries of sustainable processes but require assessing and minimizing their carbon footprint caused by the required computing power.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8669-8679
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01745E
Catalyst-free valorization of biomass resources to value-added products
An overview on the catalyst-free conversion of biomass resources into value-added products is provided. Significantly, the opportunities and challenges in the development of catalyst-free biomass conversion are proposed preliminarily.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8550-8563
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01541J
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.146/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Photochemical upcycling and recycling of plastics: achievements and future opportunities
Recent developments in the photochemical upcycling and recycling of plastics.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8528-8549
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01556H
Transforming wastes into functional materials: natural cork-based physical structural components and polymers
This article systematically reviews the research progress on the natural structure and components of cork, as well as its derived functional polymers and structural components.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8615-8641
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01132E
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Methanesulfonic acid (MSA) in clean processes and applications: a tutorial review
Methanesulfonic acid (MSA) bridges organic and inorganic green chemistry since it is a strong non-oxidizing organic acid with a very low vapor pressure and forming highly soluble metal salts.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8583-8614
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC02031F
![Open Access](https://www.rsc-cdn.org/pubs-core/2022.0.146/content/NewImages/open-access-icon-orange.png)
Biomass-derived carbon-based catalysts for lignocellulosic biomass and waste valorisation: a circular approach
Within a circular approach, cost-effective, tailored and robust biomass-derived catalysts to convert biomass play a key role in biorefinery developments.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8642-8668
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00606B
Nonenzymatic ethanol production in sustainable ways
The recent advances in nonenzymatic ethanol production from petroleum, coal, natural gas, CO2, and biomass in sustainable ways are systemically reviewed.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8564-8582
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01584C
High entropy materials: potential catalysts for electrochemical water splitting
A comprehensive overview of the use of HEM as a catalyst for HER, OER, and water splitting was provided.
Green Chem., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC02329C
Symmetry-breaking structure electrocatalysts for nitrate reduction to ammonia
This tutorial review highlights the advancement of the emerging electrocatalysts featuring unique symmetry-breaking structures for nitrate reduction to ammonia.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8145-8160
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC02069C
Demystifying the recent photochemical and electrochemical strategies in installing the magic methyl group: a comprehensive overview
The strategic installation of the “magic methyl” group has become highly desirable for drug discovery. This review summarized the recent photochemical and electrochemical strategies in installing the methyl group.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 8161-8203
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00848K
Recycling spent lithium-ion battery cathode: an overview
This review introduces the structure and failure mechanism of lithium-ion batteries, followed by a systematic summary of recycling techniques, including direct, hydrometallurgical, and pyrometallurgical recovery.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 7656-7717
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01781A
A review on sustainable iron oxide nanoparticles: syntheses and applications in organic catalysis and environmental remediation
In this review paper, recent developments of iron oxide nanoparticles are highlighted and discussed in the field of organic catalysis and environmental remediation.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 7579-7655
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01870B
Green polyphenol-based photothermal interfacial evaporation systems toward solar water production
Distinct functions, multiple application forms and representative applications of green polyphenols in photothermal interfacial evaporation systems are comprehensively and systematically summarized.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6959-6982
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01486C
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Nature-inspired batteries: from biomaterials to biomimetic design strategies
Bio-inspired materials and design serve as a source of inspiration for the design of electrodes, electrolytes, interfaces and devices, inducing flexibility, selective ionic transport, self-healing properties or biodegradability.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6944-6958
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00638K
The future nickel metal supply for lithium-ion batteries
This article reviews the supply of nickel metal for lithium-ion batteries with regard to its resources, reserves, extraction and recycling, and application.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6926-6943
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01980F
Biomass derived sulfonated carbon catalysts: efficient catalysts for green chemistry
BDSCCs, known as efficient solid acid catalysts with easy preparation and a green source, are anticipated to play a role in advancing circular and economic development in various sectors.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6361-6381
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00113C
Hydrogel-stabilized zinc ion batteries: progress and outlook
We explored effective solutions for enhancing the operational stability of ZIBs by designing hydrogel electrolytes that protect zinc anodes, cathodes, and electrolytes.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6404-6422
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01465K
Polymer photocatalysts for photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), as a mild oxidant and promising liquid fuel, has widespread application potential in energy and environment fields.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6382-6403
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01321B
Recent advances and perspectives of practical modifications of vanadium redox flow battery electrodes
Electrode modification of VRFB with “3Es”.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6339-6360
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00584H
Furfural production from lignocellulosic biomass: one-step and two-step strategies and techno-economic evaluation
The conversion of lignocellulose biomass to furfural can be performed using one-step and two-step strategies. A techno-economic analysis plays a crucial role in evaluating the overall economic feasibility of industrial-scale furfural production.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 6318-6338
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00883A
Recent catalytic innovations in furfural transformation
This review highlights recent advancements in the selective conversion of biomass-derived furfural to high-value platform chemicals over various heterogeneous catalytic systems.
Green Chem., 2024, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC01983K
Covalent porous catalysts for electrochemical reduction of CO2
This article reviews different types of covalent porous catalysts for eCO2RR, including their design principles, the latest progress and their structure–activity relationships reported in recent literature.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5744-5769
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00717D
Seaweed-based polysaccharides – review of extraction, characterization, and bioplastic application
Seaweed biomass is gaining industrial and economic momentum as a renewable feedstock for high-value products, including nutraceuticals, value-added chemicals and bioplastics.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5790-5823
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04009G
Challenges and opportunities on sustainable electrochemical transformations: application towards the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and precursors of drug-like molecules
This article highlighted the recent demand for sustainable and resource efficient drug synthesis using electrochemical strategies.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5770-5789
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04881K
Mass spectrometry in the age of green analytical chemistry
Vital aspects to consider when implementing green analytical chemistry in mass spectrometry.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4975-4986
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04624A
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Recent progress in transition metal based catalysts and mechanism analysis for alcohol electrooxidation reactions
This article reviews recent advancements in AOR catalysts, emphasizing mechanistic studies through in situ characterization and DFT calculations to unravel the structure-performance correlation.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4987-5003
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00227J
Progress in stabilizing zinc anodes for zinc-ion batteries using electrolyte solvent engineering
This review presents the research progress in the stabilization of Zn anodes using various solvents, including alcohols, amines, acetonitrile, lipids, ethers, and dimethyl sulfoxide.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5004-5021
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00283K
Recent advances in the design of high-performance cobalt-based catalysts for dry reforming of methane
In this review, many strategies, such as improving metal dispersion, strengthening metal–support interaction, increasing CO2 adsorption and activation, promoting oxygen release/storage capacity, were proposed to improve catalytic performance of DRM.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5103-5126
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC05136F
Poly(ionic liquid)s: an emerging platform for green chemistry
This tutorial review provides a comprehensive and authoritative summary on the exciting research activities in the fields of poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs), covering their synthesis and their applications in a number of areas.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 5022-5102
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00202D
Optimized mass transfer in a Pt-based cathode catalyst layer for PEM fuel cells
Different strategies of mass transfer enhancement in a Pt-based cathode catalyst layer for PEM fuel cells.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4432-4448
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC05033E
Constructing strain in electrocatalytic materials for CO2 reduction reactions
The formation of strain, the effect of strain on CO2 reduction reactions, and the recent advances in strain engineering for CO2 reduction reactions have been systemically reviewed.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4449-4467
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4GC00514G
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Syntheses and polymerization of monoterpene-based (meth)acrylates: IBO(M)A as a relevant monomer for industrial applications
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the current scientific status of monomer and polymer synthesis, as well as the areas of application for (meth)acrylates based on monoterpenes, using the industrially available IBOMA as an example.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4387-4416
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04663J
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Controlling the diffusion of small molecules from matrices processed by all-aqueous methodologies: towards the development of green pharmaceutical products
This work provides a review of green approaches for producing drug delivery systems (DDSs) to identify the challenges in effectively retaining and further releasing low molecular weight molecules from all-aqueous matrices.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 4417-4431
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04183B
Strategies for avoiding the scaling relationship in ammonia synthesis with non-thermal plasma methods – the “shift” or “break” approach
Strategies for avoiding scaling relations of ammonia synthesis on the transition metal catalysts are reviewed. The green plasma ammonia processes on N2 and H2/H2O are emphasized.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3670-3687
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC05006H
Photocatalyzed Minisci-type reactions for late-stage functionalization of pharmaceutically relevant compounds
The application of photocatalyzed Minisci-type reactions in LSF accelerates the discovery of drug candidates in a green way.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3595-3626
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC05089K
Deep eutectic solvents as an emerging green platform for the synthesis of functional materials
Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) enable many processes to be environmentally friendly. This Tutorial Review aims to showcase the roles of DESs in the synthesis of functional materials from a green chemistry perspective.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3627-3669
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04289H
Nature-inspired safe and efficient hair dyes: beyond the traditional hair dyes
This review concludes the recent advance of nature-inspired hair dyes including categories and preparation, emphasizing the interaction between pigment and hair. The pigmentation mechanisms and color-tuning strategies are also elaborated.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3125-3138
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04741E
A survey of the iron ligand-to-metal charge transfer chemistry in water
Fully hydrated! – Iron photocatalysis tests the waters.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3058-3071
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04595A
Principles and practice of greener ionic liquid–nanoparticles biosystem
Ionic liquids as additives in nanoparticles influence their morphology and enhance their bioactivity, highlighting their key role in sustainable chemistry, a major environmental advance.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3072-3124
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04387H
Pickering emulsion-derived nano/microreactors for unconventional interfacial catalysis: state-of-the-art advances and perspectives in green reactions
This review comprehensively describes the recent advancements in the design and preparation of Pickering emulsions and systematically highlights their green catalysis applications using as-fabricated nano/microreactors.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 3039-3057
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC02512H
Recent advances in the selective oxidation of glycerol to value-added chemicals via photocatalysis/photoelectrocatalysis
This work summarizes a review on the selective oxidation of glycerol via photocatalysis/photoelectrocatalysis. We elucidate the unique reaction pathways induced by photo-generated reactive species from a green chemistry point of view.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 2505-2524
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03554A
Green synthesis of hypercrosslinked polymers for CO2 capture and conversion: recent advances, opportunities, and challenges
Hypercrosslinked polymers and the resultant carbon materials are promising platforms for CO2 capture and conversion, because of their high specific surface areas, and modifiable and accessible surface functionalities.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 2476-2504
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04222G
Electroreductive upgradation of biomass into high-value chemicals and energy-intensive biofuels
Recent advances in electroreductive upgradation of biomass to high-value chemicals and energy-intensive biofuels via various transformation routes are showcased.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 2454-2475
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04543A
Enantioselective cross-dehydrogenative coupling enabled by organocatalysis
Organocatalytic enantioselective cross-dehydrogenative coupling reaction provides a great opportunity for the synthesis of highly enantioenriched molecules. In this review, recent progress in this field is summarized.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1846-1875
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04154A
Thermo-/photo-catalysts for aerobic oxidative cyanation of diverse oxygen-containing feedstocks
Aerobic oxidative cyanation of diverse oxygen-containing compounds over thermo- and photocatalysts is highlighted as a green and promising avenue for nitrile synthesis.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1831-1845
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04548J
Recent advances in hydrotropic solvent systems for lignocellulosic biomass utilization
Hydrotropic solvents are a promising solvent in biomass processing due to their unique amphiphilic structure. This review summarizes recent advances in hydrotropic solvent systems with their chemical structure, amphiphilicity, roles, and mechanism.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1806-1830
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03309K
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Recycling of polyurethanes: where we are and where we are going
Polyurethanes (PUs) represent a family of useful synthetic polymers (thermoplastic or thermosetting) obtained from diisocyanates and diols/polyols via polycondensation reactions.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1132-1152
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC02091F
Photocatalysis as a green alternative toolkit for the construction of nitrogen-enriched heterocycles via the direct and indirect activation of alkynes/alkenes
By harnessing the reactivity of alkynes and alkenes under photochemical conditions, novel pathways have been unlocked to construct N-heterocyclic compounds, allowing for more efficient and sustainable synthesis.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1223-1280
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03971D
The green manufacturing of thermoplastic starch for low-carbon and sustainable energy applications: a review on its progress
Thermoplastic starch (TPS) has acquired considerable attention and many efforts have been devoted to its application in many areas, such as food packaging, waterborne coatings, gas barriers, and energy storage and generation.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1194-1222
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03671E
A systematic review of efficient recycling for the cathode materials of spent lithium-ion batteries: process intensification technologies beyond traditional methods
With the consequent retirement of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), there has been an upsurge in spent LIBs, posing significant challenges to energy, resources, and the environment, which has led to the necessity to recycle spent LIBs.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1170-1193
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04088G
Advancements and applications of microwave-assisted deep eutectic solvent (MW-DES) lignin extraction: a comprehensive review
Lignocellulosic-derived biorefineries present an environmentally friendly avenue for generating biofuels and bioproducts, curbing emissions, and advancing environmental stewardship.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 1153-1169
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04501C
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Adsorptive separation of saccharides and polyols over materials functionalized with boronate groups
The Tutorial review critically considers the application of materials bearing boronate groups for separation and recovery of saccharides and polyols via affinity adsorption processes.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 720-738
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC04049F
Recent advances in ambient electrochemical methane conversion to oxygenates using metal oxide electrocatalysts
In this review, the recent developments in the electrocatalytic conversion of methane under ambient conditions, with focus on metal oxide catalysts, are examined. The commonly employed strategies are systematically reviewed.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 655-677
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03513A
Progress in the applications of biocompatible ionic liquids: renewable commodity production, catalytic and pharmaceutical approaches – a review
This review addressed the recent advances of biocompatible ionic liquids that include the production of renewable commodities and approaches in catalysis and the pharmaceutical field. Likewise, patents and future perspectives are discussed.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 705-719
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03693F
Montmorillonite-based materials for electrochemical energy storage
Montmorillonite is widely applied in the field of electrochemical energy storage mainly due to its low cost, inherent high ionic conductivity, tuneable 2D layered structure, and abundant chemisorption active sites.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 678-704
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03447J
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Combining DoE and MASE: a winning strategy for the isolation of natural bioactive compounds from plant materials
MASE is well suited for use in the nature-aided drug discovery, but the OFAT approach risks limiting the advantages offered by the technique. The way to make it truly green is to couple MASE with DoE, although this coupling is still limited.
Green Chem., 2024,26, 244-258
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3GC03952H
About this collection
Welcome to our online collection of Green Chemistry Review articles. Here we feature Critical reviews, Tutorial reviews and Perspective articles published in 2024.
For more information about the different review types, please go to https://rsc.li/greenchem
Congratulations to all the authors whose articles are featured and we hope readers enjoy this collection.