Analytical Chemistry

Unsymmetrical ethers are generally synthesized via the Williamson ether method, but the unwanted formation of symmetrical ethers plus the basic and harsh conditions of the route pose a synthetic challenge. Other methods employed in the synthesis of unsymmetrical ether require the use of toxic mineral acids, and requires high catalyst loading which limits their large-scale application. Dehydration of alcohols in the presence of base-metal catalyst has, however, recently offered the greenest approach to synthesize unsymmetrical ethers, leaving water as by-product.

             Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a diverse group of synthetic compounds widely used for their dual hydrophobic and lipophobic properties. They comprise more than 4700 CAS-registered compounds according to the OECD and have been used intentionally in nonstick, grease-and waterproof, and stain-resistant consumer products, particularly food packaging materials. PFAS are inherently persistent, and many are mobile, bio-accumulative, and toxicity to a wide array of organisms, making them emerging contaminants of concern.

Significant increases in the presence of organofluorine compounds, especially per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have been reported in the various environmental compartments.  Many of these compounds, including their precursors and metabolites, remain challenging to detect and quantify using current analytical methods.  PFAS have the potential to undergo metabolic transformation processes under biotic conditions in the presence of suitable microbial communities and under varying environmental conditions, each with its unique metabolic pathways.  Yet microbial degrada

his research focuses on the design and optimization of supramolecular deep eutectic solvents (SUPRADES) for the extraction of bioactive compounds and the exploration of potential applications. SUPRADES represent a novel subclass of deep eutectic solvents (DES) that could have a significant impact on green chemistry due to their enhanced inclusion properties, offering a promising alternative to conventional solvents. They may provide higher selectivity and efficiency in extracting different families of compounds.

The innovation in this study lies in enhancing conventional sensors through the integration of advanced materials such as graphene and its derivatives. These materials, derived from carbon, a widely abundant, renewable, and sustainable element, exhibit exceptional properties, including high molecular adsorption capacity, superior electrical conductivity, and remarkable mechanical strength. Their multifunctionality not only enhances sensor performance but also promotes material efficiency by significantly reducing the resources required for production.