Abstract
Friedel–Crafts reactions are a class of very important reactions in organic chemistry and have been used in synthesis for over 100 years. The reactions are used to manufacture a large variety of products, with applications in multiple sectors, including pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals and personal care products. Traditional manufacturing processes are notoriously hazardous and wasteful. This chapter discusses the issues around the catalysis of Friedel–Crafts reactions, including problems with standard routes, and the greener alternatives that have been proposed. The chapter is illustrated with case studies on polystyrene and ibuprofen.
Publisher
The Royal Society of Chemistry