The Impact of Ether Ring Formation via Mechanochemistry

Mechanochemistry uses physical, mechanical mixing in order to break and forms bonds in solvent-free conditions, which can yield different mechanistic outcomes compared to the traditional solution-based method. The highly concentrated mixing of reagents would be typically the last method thought to synthesize medium-sized ether rings, as the molecules require high dilution to promote ring closure and prevent unintended polymerization. However, solid mixing can orientate selectively based on weak interactions that may be negligible in a stirring solution. This project hopes to explore the viability of preparing small to medium ether rings by ball-milling. Ring closing is a common strategy in drug development and if this proves possible, a new branch of organic synthetic mechanochemically will emerge. Investigating alternative and environmentally-friendly methods of standard reactions is crucial as the global pandemic has highlighted the instability and huge price spike in the supply of solvents that Canada currently relies on to continue the production of medicine and research.

Faculty Supervisor:

John Trant

Student:

Partner:

University of Cincinnati

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Windsor

Program: