Green chemistry is the design of chemical processes that reduce or eliminate hazardous substances, minimize waste, and use safer, renewable materials. Guided by these principles, our work in Dr. Anderson’s lab focuses on developing more environmentally friendly conditions for forming an amide, a common functional group in organic chemistry. Traditionally, this reaction uses diethyl ether, a highly flammable solvent derived from petroleum. To improve safety and sustainability, we are replacing ether with methyl tetrahydrofuran (MeTHF), a solvent made from agricultural waste that is less hazardous and renewable, while also exploring alternative reagents to further reduce environmental impact. By systematically testing greener conditions, we aim to maintain reaction efficiency while making the overall process safer and more sustainable.
