September 9, 2024

PFAS-free fluorination breakthrough in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals

Researchers at the Van ‘t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Amsterdam, have developed a groundbreaking method to synthesize fluorinated pharmaceutical and agrochemical compounds without using harmful PFAS chemicals. This innovation offers an alternative to traditional fluorination processes, which are often environmentally burdensome.

A new era for green fluorination

The new method, developed by the research team, allows for the creation of fluorinated compounds—key components in many pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals—without PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). PFAS are known for their harmful environmental impact and potential health risks. While reducing environmental burden was not the original goal of the research, this breakthrough nonetheless represents a significant improvement over traditional fluorination methods. It aligns with broader efforts to develop more sustainable chemical processes.

Applications across industries

This PFAS-free method has potential applications in both the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. In pharmaceuticals, it can be used to produce drugs that are essential for treating various conditions, without the concerns over PFAS-related environmental pollution. In the agrochemical sector, the method offers an alternative for synthesizing pesticides and herbicides. Although the technology is still in its early stages, it holds promising possibilities for sectors seeking safer and more sustainable chemical processes.

Source: website University of Amsterdam

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