Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata

Kolkata, Mar 7: In a breakthrough for sustainable chemistry, researchers at the S N Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata, have discovered an efficient, less energy-intensive, and environmentally friendly method to produce hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a crucial chemical widely used for disinfection, paper bleaching, and industrial applications.

The team developed covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with high water affinity, enabling a significant improvement in photocatalytic H2O2 production. The innovation eliminates the need for energy-intensive industrial processes, which currently rely on the anthraquinone oxidation method, known for its high cost and hazardous by-products.

By carefully modifying the hydrazone linkage density in COFs, the researchers created an effective photocatalyst that enhances the water oxidation reaction (WOR) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), two essential pathways for H2O2 synthesis. Remarkably, the process successfully generated H2O2 under a 40 W blue LED and even under sunlight, making it a clean and sustainable alternative.

The study also revealed that using an aqueous benzyl alcohol solution (90% water, 10% benzyl alcohol) not only enhanced H2O2 production but also prevented its degradation. The researchers believe this innovation could pave the way for an industry-friendly, continuous flow reactor for large-scale sustainable H2O2 production.

This breakthrough is expected to make a significant impact on industries reliant on hydrogen peroxide, offering a greener, cost-effective, and more sustainable solution for the future.