Heating Up Chemistry with the Microwave

Session I, Virtual Room 2: (Micro)Waves & Biochars

This research looks at designing optimal conditions to carry out organic oxidation reactions, of secondary alcohols, using microwave assisted organic synthesis. Heating these reactions in a research grade microwave oven decreases time and often improves yield. Using less solvent and a recyclable catalyst makes these reactions environmentally friendly. Factorial design is also applied to create reaction sets which simultaneously explore several variables such as time, temperature and wattage. The role of these variables will help to determine the optimum reaction conditions.