Abstract

Continuous-Flow Photochemistry. When, Why, How?

Michael Oelgemöller, Associate Professor, James Cook University

Continuous-flow photochemistry has sparked a remarkable renaissance in organic photochemistry, especially in academia. A major issue of continuous-flow studies has been their reproducibility, as improvised light sources and reactor materials significantly impact on performances. A commonly mentioned advantage of flow operation is also its superiority over batch processes in terms of light penetration and mass-transfer. However, this claim is misleading as most batch studies in academia are conducted in sub-standard setups. Industrial photochemical processes are also rarely conducted in batch and utilize advanced setups instead. The only real advantage of continuous-flow operation may thus be simply its convenience and the ability to conduct photochemical studies rapidly and easily. This presentation will clarify some of the exaggerated claims associated with continuous-flow photochemistry. It will also present current strategies used in industrial photochemistry to overcome light penetration and mass-transfer limitations. The presentation will also highlight the need for a standard, purpose-designed flow photoreactor that covers the entire photochemically relevant UVC to visible light range.