The use of alternative reaction solvents is reviewed in terms of life cycle. Supercritical CO2, ionic liquids, fluorous solvents, water, and renewable organics are compared on the basis of their solvency, ease of use, reusability, health and safety, environmental impact, and economic cost.

This review focuses on the use of heterogeneous catalysts in the production of fine and speciality chemicals. The major emphasis is on those systems which have been commercialised already and those which are close to commercialisation. These include the use of TS-1 for oxidation reactions including the production of hydroquinone, caprolactam, and alkene oxides, and clay-supported catalysts such as clayzic, which are commercially available for acid-catalysed reactions, in particular Friedel−Crafts reactions. Base catalysis and acid-catalysed halogenation and nitration are also covered.