Dr Jamie Hicks is leading a research team at ANU that is investigating alternative, sustainable starting materials for the synthesis of fine chemicals. Particular focus is on using waste products from other industrial processes for a two-fold benefit – reducing waste whilst minimising crude oil usage. Carbon dioxide (CO2), a waste product of many industrial processes and a potent greenhouse gas, is an excellent candidate for this. The research group have recently developed routes to transform CO2 into various useful starting materials for chemical manufacturing. The team hopes that soon, many of your pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and cleaning products will be made from CO2!
2024