Mechanism and Kinetics of a Solid State Sn2 Reaction

Abstract

Green chemistry is built from the principles of reducing the use of hazardous materials and increasing efficiency in chemical reactions. Green chemistry is more environmentally friendly and can reduce costs in a chemical synthesis. Often the most expensive component of chemical synthesis is the disposal of the solvent. However, most chemical reactions require a solvent. In this study, a solvent-less reaction was investigated, adhering to green chemistry ideals. The reaction investigated involves an Sn2 reaction between iodide and benzyl tosylate. The progress of the reaction was monitored via Infrared Spectroscopy. Reaction data can be used to determine kinetic parameters and can then be compared to the data generated from the same reaction run under standard, solvent based reactions. The results of this study will yield a quantitative comparison between a green solvent-less reaction and its twin reaction within solvent.