Demonstration of a Scalable Quadricyclane Production Process

Propose a continuous process for the triplet-sensitized photochemical conversion of norbornadiene to quadricyclane for the purpose of (1) demonstrating process technology and (2) determining the scaling and cost factors needed for the design of a pilot plant facility in a Phase II project. The process is based on non-obvious improvements to both the process (batch continuous) and chemistry (improved sensitization). The proposed Phase I process is designed to provide multigrams of quadricyclane per hour at >99% purity for a demonstration of the technology and will include the production of samples for further testing and evaluation by the DoD. The process will (1) utilize a sensitizer with an absorption band that more optimally matches the emission from a high efficiency UV source than sensitizers previously used, and (2) will implement a system that efficiently shifts short wavelength UV light for optimal throughput and efficiency. A continuous-flow purification process will yield high final product purity at the lowest possible cost. The proposed reactor is a scaled version of a pilot plant design that would produce 1-2 pounds of quadricyclane per hour per stage. Variables to be optimized include pump speed, sensitizer concentration, energy transfer agents, and cooling capacity.