Researchers at Rice University  have developed a groundbreaking method to perform chemical reactions in water, eliminating the need for toxic organic solvents. Using metal complex surfactants, they created nanoscale micelles tiny, self-assembled reactors that drive light-powered chemical processes . This breakthrough could transform industries like pharmaceuticals and materials science by making chemical manufacturing safer, greener, and more cost-effective.  

A Step Toward Sustainable Chemistry

Surfactants are molecules with water-attracting and water-repelling parts. When placed in water they form micelles small spherical structures with hydrophobic cores that can host chemical reactions. The Rice team engineered these micelles with light-sensitive metal complexes, enabling photocatalytic reactions that typically require harmful solvents.  

By adjusting molecular structures, they created micelles as small as 5-6 nanometers, significantly improving reaction efficiency. The study, led by Professor Angel Martí and published in Chemical Science on Feb. 10, demonstrates how these reactors enable high-yield chemical transformations in a sustainable, reusable system.  

Transforming Chemical Processes 

These micelles act like tiny reaction vessels, allowing transformations that wouldn’t normally work in water while being more environmentally friendly, said Ying Chen, first author and doctoral student at Rice.  

Many industrial chemical processes rely on toxic organic solvents, which pose environmental and safety challenges. This water-based micellar technology offers a safer, cost-effective alternative by reducing pollution, improving efficiency, and eliminating hazardous waste disposal issues.  

A Collaborative Effort for a Greener Future

The research was supported by the Welch Foundation and Rice’s Interdisciplinary Excellence Awards. Co-authors include Shih-Chieh Kao and Julian West, Asia Matatyaho Ya’akobi and Yeshayahu Talmon, and Thao Vy Nguyen and Sibani Lisa Biswal.  

This innovation represents a major leap forward in green chemistry and could lead to sustainable advancements in pharmaceuticals, materials science, and industrial manufacturing.

Source: https://news.rice.edu/news/2025/rice-scientists-create-tiny-water-based-reactors-green-chemistry