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Science 11 October 1991:
Vol. 254. no. 5029, pp. 231 - 237
DOI: 10.1126/science.254.5029.231
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Articles

Reactivity of Organic Compounds in Hot Water: Geochemical and Technological Implications

MICHAEL SISKIN 1 and ALAN R. KATRITZKY 1

1 Exxon Research and Engineering Company, Corporate Research Science Laboratory, Route 22 East, Clinton Township, Annandale, NJ 08801

Understanding of the reactivity of organic molecules in hot water is developing from studies aimed at explaining how organic matter (kerogen) forms in natural environments and then breaks down into energy source materials. In natural systems where kerogens are depolymerized, hot water is ubiquitous and usually contains salt and minerals. Reactions such as ionic condensation, cleavage, and hydrolysis are facilitated by changes in the chemical and physical properties of water as temperature increases. These changes make the solvent properties of water at high temperature similar to those of polar organic solvents at room temperature, thus facilitating reactions with organic compounds. An understanding of aqueous organic chemistry may lead to potential applications in areas as diverse as the recycling of plastics, the synthesis of chemicals, and coal liquefaction.


THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES:
Organic molecules formed in a "primordial womb".
L. B. Williams, B. Canfield, K. M. Voglesonger, and J. R. Holloway (2005)
Geology 33, 913-916
   Abstract »    Full Text »    PDF »
Organic matter alteration and fluid migration in hydrothermal systems.
B. R.T. Simoneit (1994)
Geological Society, London, Special Publications 78, 261-274
   Abstract »    PDF »


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Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online)