Heating using microwave technique: An approach towards green chemistry

Abstract

Green chemistry focuses on minimizing waste, minimizing use of chemicals/reagents, reducing pollution and preservation of human health and environment. Using conventional methods of synthesis are creating the said problems in present scenario. To solve these problems new alternate methods must be developed. Many alternatives have been already developed but many more have to do. Use of microwave radiations are one the alternative in which these radiations are used for heating purpose instead of conventional heating methods which uses solvents in large amount and requires much time. Lot of benefits are there in heating using microwave radiations over conventional methods of heating but have limitations too. Not for every reaction/synthesis, but microwaves can be only used for the reactant having specific properties. Single mode and multi-mode microwave ovens are usually used for achieving this purpose. Heating by microwave radiations not only saves time i.e. it converts hours to minutes because it accelerates the reaction, increases the yield, reduces the energy requirement and the most important thing is no or minimum pollution/waste. Health hazards are also been noticed in using these radiations both external and internal. This short communication was aimed to find out the necessity of alternative methods of synthesis that fulfils the concept of green chemistry which will fulfill the need of healthy life and environment.