Alternatives for Conventional Alkane Solvents

This study investigates alternative solvents to conventional alkanes, which are widely used in various chemical processes but have significant environmental and safety concerns. The objective is to identify and evaluate new solvent systems that maintain similar functionality while reducing toxicity and environmental impact. A systematic approach combining synthesis and characterization techniques was employed, including the development of azo dyes and cosolvents for UV-visible spectroscopy studies, and the use of polyisobutylene (PIB) as a support for dye and carboxylic acid in isomerization studies. Various methods including 1H NMR and UV-vis experiments were utilized to assess solvent performance and stability. Key results demonstrated that PIB-supported dye systems effectively minimize contamination in solvent media and enhance isomerization rates in tests with traditional polar solvents. The findings suggest viable alternatives using PIB and other polymer cosolvents, thus providing insights into the potential of innovative solvent systems that align with modern green chemistry principles. Overall, this research contributes to the ongoing efforts to improve solvent technology in chemical processes, aiming for safer and more sustainable practices.