Module 21-SC-1 Sustainable Materials and their Synthesis I

Students gain an in-depth understanding of the raw material base, sustainable synthesis pathways, and their industrial relevance. They become familiar with the raw material base of today’s chemical industry (“product family tree”) and explore perspectives for its transition to renewable resources, the principles of the circular economy, and the challenges and solutions related to recycling. Additionally, they acquire a solid technical understanding of selecting raw materials for chemical synthesis. They are able to analyze, compare, and apply relevant chemocatalytic and biocatalytic processes for various chemical synthesis challenges. A particular focus is placed on concepts in both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, especially in transition metal and biocatalysis. They acquire the ability to analyze the chemical reaction mechanisms of catalytic processes and apply them to new synthesis routes, as well as understand methods for optimizing catalysts and processes to enhance sustainability and economic efficiency. Additionally, students gain a foundational understanding of biocatalytic and biotechnological synthesis methods. Based on this knowledge, they can identify and reason challenges in implementation and propose rough solutions. The interdisciplinary nature of the module empowers students to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for the synthesis of relevant molecules.

The module discusses in detail the use of renewable resources, the principles of chemocatalysis and biocatalysis, and their significance and challenges for sustainable chemistry. A primary focus is on raw material sources and the “product family tree,” with today’s fossil-based raw materials serving as the benchmark. In addition to introducing renewable and competitive raw material sources with industrial potential, the module examines chemistry’s contributions to the circular economy, as well as solutions, challenges, and limitations of recycling. Special emphasis is placed on chemical recycling options and their mechanistic foundations. Another key aspect is understanding how the transition to renewable resources impacts the existing product family tree. The module also explores catalytic processes essential for producing sustainable industrial chemicals. A major emphasis is on aspects of synthetic organic chemistry that are particularly relevant for applications in sustainable chemistry, focusing on key catalyst classes, their mechanisms, and applications. In addition to transition metal catalysis and biocatalysis, general strategies for catalyst and process optimization are methodically examined, for example, the immobilization and thus heterogenization of catalyst components, as well as reaction engineering using environmentally friendly solvents. A special focus is placed on enzymatic catalysis and biotechnological processes, along with their industrial applications. The interdisciplinary approach enables students to develop innovative approaches for resource-efficient and effective synthesis of important chemicals.

Knowledge comparable to that acquired in the courses of the Bachelor programme "Nachhaltige Chemie".

30 ECTS of theoretical knowledge in organic and inorganic chemistry and 20 ECTS in chemical laboratory practice