Laboratory Ozonolysis Using an Integrated Batch-DIY Flow System for Renewable Material Production.

Area of Science:

• Chemical Engineering
• Organic Chemistry
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Flow chemistry presents an alternative to batch processing for hazardous chemical synthesis.
• Ozonolysis is a valuable reaction but faces challenges in flow chemistry implementation due to cost and optimization barriers.
• Developing accessible flow chemistry systems is crucial for wider adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a low-cost, programmable DIY syringe pump system for continuous flow ozonolysis.
• To integrate ozonolysis with downstream reactions in a multireactor setup.
• To demonstrate the system's capability for producing valuable chemicals like azelaic acid.

Main Methods:

• A programmable DIY syringe pump system was engineered using 3D-printed parts, stepper motors, and an Arduino microcontroller.
• An integrated batch-flow approach was employed, synchronizing ozone addition with fluid movement.
• Downstream Pinnick oxidation and reductive quench were performed in flow.

Main Results:

• The system successfully enabled continuous preparation of azelaic acid via ozonolysis of palmitoleic acid.
• High total production of azelaic acid was achieved with an 80% yield.
• The process utilized an algae oil-sourced unsaturated fatty acid, demonstrating sustainable sourcing.

Conclusions:

• The developed low-cost, DIY flow chemistry system is effective for continuous ozonolysis and downstream processing.
• This approach offers a scalable and accessible solution for producing chemicals with hazardous intermediates.
• The system has potential for rapid prototyping and distributed chemical manufacturing.