Wacker Honors Researchers for Pioneering Work on the Synthesis of Silicones
Wacker Chemie AG bestowed its annual “Alexander Wacker Innovation Award” on Dr. Anne Alber and Dr. Jan Kunert for their pioneering work in silicone synthesis. The two researchers have developed a novel analytical method that, for the first time, allows processes to be observed which occur during the fluid-bed synthesis of silicone precursors by the Müller-Rochow method. With this knowledge, Wacker can further improve its production processes and thus save millions in costs. This year’s €10,000 innovation award focused on basic research.
The Müller-Rochow synthesis for the production of silicone precursors is one of the Munich-based chemical producer’s most important manufacturing processes. It involves converting silicon powder with chloromethane into dimethyl chlorosilane in a fluid bed reactor in the presence of a copper catalyst. The silane serves as the raw material for the production of all kinds of silicones.
Although the Müller-Rochow synthesis was developed in the 1940s, the precise reaction mechanism is still largely unknown. Alber and Kunert have now set about rectifying this. They are the first researchers to gain a detailed insight into the overall process inside the fluid bed reactor. This has yielded a wealth of new information about the reactions involved in the Müller-Rochow process. The pioneering work of the two laureates has already spawned a series of improvements in Wacker’s integrated production system. Annual savings are in the mid-double-digit million range.
“When an innovation in basic research triggers such an innovation boost in one of our most important production processes, then such excellent work deserves recognition,” said William Sittenthaler, a member of the Executive Board, in his speech. The laureates had opened a further chapter in the long and venerable history of silicones at Wacker, he added. Richard Müller, co-inventor of the Müller-Rochow synthesis, was site manager at the current Wacker site in Nünchritz (Saxony) in the 1950s.
Other news from the department science
Get the chemical industry in your inbox
From now on, don't miss a thing: Our newsletter for the chemical industry, analytics, lab technology and process engineering brings you up to date every Tuesday and Thursday. The latest industry news, product highlights and innovations - compact and easy to understand in your inbox. Researched by us so you don't have to.
Most read news
More news from our other portals
See the theme worlds for related content
Topic world Synthesis
Chemical synthesis is at the heart of modern chemistry and enables the targeted production of molecules with specific properties. By combining starting materials in defined reaction conditions, chemists can create a wide range of compounds, from simple molecules to complex active ingredients.
Topic world Synthesis
Chemical synthesis is at the heart of modern chemistry and enables the targeted production of molecules with specific properties. By combining starting materials in defined reaction conditions, chemists can create a wide range of compounds, from simple molecules to complex active ingredients.
