Recent Developments in Catalytic Micro Process Engineering for Fine Chemicals Synthesis

Abstract

In this review, recent developments in fine chemicals synthesis, catalysis, microreactor design and applications are discussed. Specifically, new advances in continuous micro process engineering, packed-bed devices and photoreactors are discussed to include recent patents in these areas. In addition, new energy sources including ultrasounds and microwaves integrated into microstructured reactors are also discussed. Novel progress in materials to build these devices such as single walled nanotubes are discussed with respect to their properties and synthesis. This approach foresees developments in the use of nanomaterials in microreactor design and the impact these will have in the synthesis and purification of different fine chemicals in continuous flow devices. Keywords: Flow-chemistry, microreactor, nanotubes, packed-bed reactor, photochemistry.