green chemistry

Solar energy stands as a cornerstone in the pursuit of a sustainable future. This poster explores the history and advancements in solar technology, highlighting its significant role in reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. By examining the latest innovations in photovoltaic systems, energy storage solutions, and grid integration, we demonstrate how solar energy is leading to a cleaner, more resilient energy infrastructure. Furthermore, we discuss how solar energy drives the principles of green chemistry, promoting environmentally friendly practices in energy production.

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

Metal catalysts play a fundamental role in the pursuit of sustainable practices. They can optimize efficiency and minimize waste in chemical reactions that produce sustainable products/processes, helping to reduce harmful substances to the environment and human health, combat climate change, and generate clean energy. The most widely used catalysts are noble metals (e.g., platinum, palladium, and iridium) due to their desirable catalytic properties, such as high stability and temperature tolerance. However, the use of noble metals is hindered by their high cost and limited availability.

The material basis of a sustainable society will depend on chemical products and processes that are designed following principles that make them conducive to life. Important inherent properties of molecules need to be considered from the earliest stage—the design stage—to address whether compounds and processes are depleting versus renewable, toxic versus benign, and persistent versus readily degradable.