Ozonolysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in liquid CO2

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for ozonolysis of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a liquid CO2 reaction environment. It has been unexpectedly discovered that oxygen-containing functional groups can be added to PAH substrates while substantially avoiding combustion reactions and while reducing or minimizing formation of energetic intermediates. Because the formation of energetic intermediates is minimal, the ozonolysis can be performed at temperatures near ambient (e.g., between −10° C. and 50° C.) while still achieving a satisfactory safety profile. In various aspects, ozonolysis can occur while forming a reduced or minimized amount of water, such as forming substantially no water in the reaction environment.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.