Sonochemistry in chemical synthesis

In order to understand the way in which cavitational collapse can effect chemical processes one must consider the possible effects of this collapse in different types of system. For any type of system an essential component is a liquid which conducts the sound energy to the chemical system via cavitation. 

Acceleration in reaction rate plus enhancement in product yields Simplification of procedure and the amelioration of reaction conditions Activation of catalysts Modification of reaction pathway 

Finally in heterogeneous liquid liquid reactions cavitational collapse at or near the interface will cause disruption and mixing resulting in the formation of very fine emulsions. Such systems require little or no surfactant to maintain stability and are particularly beneficial in the enhancement of phase transfer catalysis. 

The escalation of research into sonochemical synthesis over the past decade is due to a number of benefits which result from the ultrasonic irradiation of chemical reactions (Table 10.2). 

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