Supercritical and near-critical CO2 in green chemical synthesis and processing

Carbon dioxide is often promoted as a sustainable solvent, as CO2 is non-flammable, exhibits a relatively low toxicity and is naturally abundant. However, injudicious use of carbon dioxide in a process or product can reduce rather than enhance overall sustainability. This review specifically examines the use of CO2 to create greener processes and products, with a focus on research and commercialization efforts performed since 1995. The literature reveals that use of CO2 has permeated almost all facets of the chemical industry and that careful application of CO2 technology can result in products (and processes) that are cleaner, less expensive and of higher quality.