Simplified process developed to create synthetic adipates, saving energy and costs

In Germany, researchers at the Ruhr-Universität Bochum found a way to develop simpler synthetic adipates which are required for the manufacturing of perfumes, lubricants and active pharmaceutical ingredients.

So far, the reaction to produce adipates has only been possible using a complicated, multi-stage process. Now it only takes one step.

Adipates are made from the chemical substance 1,3-butadiene. The attachment of carbonyl groups, i.e. compounds of one carbon and one oxygen atom, creates adipates, of which several million tons are produced annually. With a new catalyst, the researchers headed by the Leibniz Institute for Catalysis in Rostock succeeded in reducing the complicated, multi-stage synthesis process to one step. This could save costs and energy and prevent the release of nitrogen oxides as by-products.