Mechanochemistry

Chitin, a polysaccharide abundantly sourced from squid pens and crustacean shells, is a versatile biopolymer with diverse applications. α-chitin is predominant in crustacean shells, exhibiting a hierarchical nanofibrillar organization interspersed with proteins and calcium carbonate. Recent attention has focused on chitin nanocrystals (CNCs), produced via acid hydrolysis, which exhibit exceptional mechanical, thermal, and optical properties owing to their high aspect ratio, large surface area, and distinctive crystalline structure.

In the following article we present a brief overview of the concept of mechanochemistry, a description of the history of the development of the concept, applications in organic synthesis, types of equipment, and advantages and disadvantages.

Mechanochemistry studies the chemical and physicochemical transformations of substances in all states of aggregation induced by mechanical energy processes. It has been growing significantly in recent decades as an alternative method for chemical synthesis that aligns with most of the principles of Green Chemistry. Therefore, it is crucial to understand this tool, which holds immense potential for application in chemical processes, making them more environmentally friendly. This poster was presented at the ACS GCI Green & Sustainable Chemistry Summer School 2024