Optimization and intensification of hydrosilylation reactions using a microreactor system

Abstract

Utilization of continuous flow chemistry techniques concentrates often on catalytic reactions difficult to be performed for various reasons under typical batch conditions. As a result of the advantages that continuous flow chemistry techniques offer, in regards to solving the problems related to carrying out the reactions in batch systems, microreactors are becoming more and more popular. Herein we present our results for the optimization and intensification of hydrosilylation reactions with three different alkenes. We performed reactions between 1,1,1,3,5,5,5-heptamethyltrisiloxane (HMTS) and 1-octene, 3-allyloxy-1,2-propanediol or allyl glycidyl ether with the Karstedt catalyst in both batch and microreactor systems, where we have monitored the reaction using in situ IR (controlling conversion of Si–H). Application of a microreactor system for performing the hydrosilylation reaction in a significant way allowed the conversion of Si–H bonds to be increased when using all the examined olefins. Especially lengthening of the microreactor system, while maintaining the reactants’ residence time in the microreactor, caused an increase in the Si–H conversion. With no doubt, performing the synthesis of organofunctional silicon compounds in continuous flow microreactor systems has great potential.