Can we eliminate the emissions of the greenhouse and ozone depleting gas N2O from nylon manufacture?

[eppur_se_muova]

1. What's the quantum yield ? That's the problem with any photochemical step.

First rule of photochemical synthesis: never make anything by a photochemical synthesis if you can make it another way. This rule was formulated by specialists in photochemical synthesis, so I take it seriously.

There's other, catalytic ways to make adipic acid, usually from cyclohexene. H2O2 and a tungstate catalyst is one I've used in UG labs. I'm really surprised someone hasn't tried O2/Co+2 in acid solution. This can oxidize aralkyl side chains. Would be interested to see if it cleaves C=C in cyclohexene or does allylic oxidation.

It's interesting that they did succeed in oxidizing a saturated hydrocarbon. Saves a step, it's true.

I suppose the cyclohexanol/one mixture that's used industrially is ultimately a cheaper intermediate than cyclohexene, or more tolerant of impurties, or some such. On such tiny differences in cost are the decisions to use the more polluting method chosen. Invariably, it seems.