Examples of heterogeneous catalytic processes for fine chemistry

Fine chemicals are highly pure substances that are commercially produced by chemical reactions for highly specialized applications. In most cases, however, these reactions involve stoichiometric and highly polluting steps. A possible solution is the development of processes using enzymatic, homogeneous or heterogeneous catalysts. In this review, selected examples of clean heterogeneously-catalyzed reactions applied to the synthesis of fine chemicals are reported for the purpose of highlighting the growing need for more sustainable industrial processes, i.e., processes that produce minimal waste and avoid as much as possible the use of toxic and/or hazardous reagents and solvents. A thorough knowledge of catalyst properties, reaction conditions and interactions with the reacting substrate are essential for optimizing the synthesis, thus making it possible to move on from laboratory to industrial production.