The synthesis of alkenes from alcohols has typically been carried out at high temperature in the presence of sulfuric acid or phosphoric acid. The purpose of this research is to find a greener alternative that can be implemented in the laboratory curriculum.The principles of green chemistry aim to minimize hazardous waste as well as harmful impacts on health and the environment. The aim of this research is to identify a readily available clay catalyst that can be used in place of mineral acid for dehydration of a variety of primary, secondary and tertiary alcohols. Students will be asked to evaluate this process in comparison to a standard textbook dehydration by referring to the 12 Principles of Green Chemistry.

Green chemistry in the laboratory curriculum: Alkene synthesis by dehydration of alcohols in the presence of Montmorillonite clay

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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