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Updated: Jan 15, 2026
Hydrogen Production and Utilization in a Membrane Reactor
Published on: March 10, 2023
Pharmaceuticals Made with Hydrogen: A Sustainable and Efficient Approach Using Flow Synthesis
Shū Kobayashi1,2, Haruro Ishitani2
1Department of Chemistry, School of Science, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
None:
Conventional pharmaceutical manufacturing relies on fossil fuels and inefficient batch processes, creating significant waste. This review presents a strategy using hydrogen, heterogeneous catalysts, and continuous-flow synthesis for a more sustainable and efficient approach to pharmaceutical manufacturing. We detail two key innovations: first, highly efficient catalysts (Pt/C and polysilane-modified Pd) for atom-economical C─N bond formation. Our flow systems offered superior performance and broad functional group tolerance. Second, we developed a robust polysilane-immobilized Rh-Pt bimetallic catalyst for selective arene hydrogenation under mild conditions. We successfully integrated these technologies into a seamless, multi-step continuous-flow synthesis of donepezil. By successfully integrating these technologies and overcoming challenges like catalyst inhibition, this work demonstrates a highly productive and sustainable process. This approach represents a significant step toward a greener, hydrogen-powered future for chemical manufacturing.
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