The Q-tube System, A Nonconventional Technology for Green Chemistry Practitioners

Background: High-pressure chemistry offers the possibility to have faster and cleaner transformations thus addressing most of the green chemistry principles. Among the devices recently developed, Q-tube is worth mentioning since it is cheap, easy to handle, safe and highly versatile. Methods: The most recent and interesting results obtained using such technique are reviewed in this study. Results: Examples of the Q-tube assisted reactions in organic synthesis are presented in a critical manner making where possible, a comparison with conventional heating strategies and unconventional energy source such as microwave or ultrasounds assisted synthesis. The application of Q-tube pressure reactor in biofuels manufacture is also discussed. Conclusion: The literature survey clearly revealed that Q-tube is a valid tool in organic synthesis.