Green Chemistry and Process Intensification in Life Cycle Assessment

This lecture discusses the roles of green chemistry and engineering in life cycle assessment (LCA). It begins by outlining the stages of a product's life cycle, emphasizing how green chemistry can enhance each phase, from material acquisition to end-of-life recycling. The instructor highlights the importance of using renewable and less toxic materials, as well as the potential for waste to serve as input for new processes. A key example presented is the synthesis of adipic acid, traditionally derived from petroleum, which contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. The lecture contrasts this with a greener synthesis method using glucose, which minimizes environmental impact. The second part of the lecture introduces process intensification, a concept aimed at making chemical processes more efficient and sustainable. The instructor explains various technologies, such as high-gravity reactors and microreactors, that can reduce energy consumption and waste while improving safety and production efficiency. Overall, the lecture emphasizes the integration of green chemistry principles into chemical engineering practices to foster sustainability.