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Israeli researcher finds simple alternative to organic solvents
By Globes’ correspondent
Apr 7, 2008, 17:27
Tel Aviv University professor Arkadi Vigalok and doctoral student Neli Shapiro, from the School of Chemistry at the Raymond and Beverly Sackler Faculty of Exact Sciences at Tel Aviv University, will present results of their research - on replacing organic solvents in industry with water - at a Tel Aviv University symposium.
The research was reported on in the prestigious German magazine Angewandte Chemie, International Edition. Prof. Vigalok's research group is studying a segment in chemistry that aims to incorporate more environmentally friendly (green) processes in the production of chemical materials. In "green" chemistry the quantity of the dangerous pollutants emitted during the reactions is as minimal as possible.
The researchers explain that organic solvents that are used in paints as well as other domestic products produce substantial pollutants that harm the environment. Today, between 10 and 20 chemical stages are often required in order to make a single medicine, and in each step organic solvents are used. In the pharmaceutical industry, about 100 kilograms of materials can be used in order to produce 1 kilogram of medicine.
The university researchers discovered a new technology which can help to replace the organic solvents by using water. The researchers found that mixing organic compounds, called aldehydes, together with water results in their oxidation without the use of organic solvents. The researchers used this technology to make carboxylic acids which are used in several industries, among which are the polymers and lubricants industries.
The April 8 symposium, which is organized by the Porter School of Environmental Studies and Ramot at Tel Aviv University Ltd., will also feature Altshuler Shaham "Green Fund" manager Chen Altshuler, and Arison Water Initiatives president and CEO Booky Oren.
Ramot at Tel Aviv University Ltd. is the technology transfer company of Tel Aviv University.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on April 7, 2008
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