Issue 9, 2023

Towards sustainable synthesis: a life cycle assessment of polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) by green mechanosynthesis

Abstract

Mechanochemistry represents an emerging technology that facilitates chemical reactions through the application of mechanical energy. This straightforward technique enhances reaction efficiency, expediting the process in an environmentally friendly, solvent-free manner. Polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) belongs to a class of polymers characterized by intrinsic microporosity, remarkable processability, and high adsorption capacity, rendering them well-suited for gas-related applications. However, conventional wet chemical synthesis methods of PIM-1 often necessitate substantial solvent usage, leading to significant and enduring environmental impacts. In this study, we present an alternative approach, harnessing green mechanochemical reactions to produce PIM-1. Furthermore, we conducted a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to compare and simulate the environmental impacts of both wet chemical and mechanosynthesis methods. Our findings indicate the successful qualitative synthesis of PIM-1 through mechanochemistry, resulting in a notable reduction of environmental impacts, approximately 1.5 times less compared to the conventional wet chemical synthesis route. This advancement holds great promise for advancing sustainable and eco-friendly polymer synthesis methods.

Graphical abstract: Towards sustainable synthesis: a life cycle assessment of polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) by green mechanosynthesis

Associated articles

Supplementary files

Article information

Article type
Paper
Submitted
22 sep 2023
Accepted
25 okt 2023
First published
26 okt 2023
This article is Open Access
Creative Commons BY license

RSC Sustain., 2023,1, 2287-2295

Towards sustainable synthesis: a life cycle assessment of polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) by green mechanosynthesis

C. Y. Loh, R. Huang, R. Bell and M. Xie, RSC Sustain., 2023, 1, 2287 DOI: 10.1039/D3SU00340J

This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licence. You can use material from this article in other publications without requesting further permissions from the RSC, provided that the correct acknowledgement is given.

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