Application of Microwaves in Sustainable Organic Synthesis

Over the past few decades, microwave-assisted organic synthesis (MAOS) became a commonly applied mainstream tool in the synthesis of organic compounds. The broad range of emerging applications in this field is mainly due to the significant contribution of MAOS to the development of fast, efficient, and ecofriendly processes. Various transformations have been reported for synthesis in combination with several catalysts and solvents under microwave conditions. Reactions involving greener reaction media such as ionic liquids, solvent-free conditions, special techniques such as one-pot multicomponent reactions, and solid-phase synthesis are of exceptional interest in this area. In most transformations, microwave conditions dramatically enhanced the reaction rates, as well as provided improved yields. This chapter highlights some of the most significant advancements in MAOS.