The Problem:
Dimethylformamide (DMF), imidazolidine-2-one (IMD), and tetramethylurea (TMU) are useful amide compounds commonly used as industrial solvents as well as in the production of polymers and pharmaceuticals. However, the current process for producing these compounds generates toxic waste streams requiring disposal and employs hazardous reactants that pose severe safety risks. Additionally, current processes utilize a batch production method that is inefficient when trying to produce these chemicals continuously.
The Solution:
Researchers at the University of Alabama have developed a new process for manufacturing these amides that utilizes flow through a packed bed reactor allowing for continuous production via a vapor phase reaction. Oxygen, acting as the oxidant in the reaction, replaces the need for more toxic reagents, increasing the safety of the process. The sole by-product of the reaction is water. Finally, the process is highly selective to the desired products of the reaction.
Benefits:
·Implementation of continuous flow system to simplify process logistics and reduce costs
·Tunable product composition through alteration of the reactor temperature
·Safer and more environmentally friendly than current production methods
·Amenable to smaller scale production than incumbent technologies
Publication:
Patent Pending
