Suchem

Suchem is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on the design, analysis, and optimization of chemical processes and materials with minimal environmental impact. The term is used as a broad umbrella for practices in sustainable and green chemistry, process intensification, catalysis, and materials science, emphasizing lifecycle thinking and resource efficiency. Researchers aim to reduce hazards, energy use, waste, and dependency on nonrenewable inputs while maintaining performance and economic viability.

Origin and usage: The word suchem emerged in the early 21st century within green chemistry circles as a shorthand for a holistic approach to chemical development. It is not a fixed standard, and the scope can vary by institution, sometimes overlapping with, or used alongside, terms such as sustainable chemistry, eco-friendly synthesis, and responsible innovation.

Core methods include the deployment of flow chemistry and solvent-free or solvent-minimized processes, the use of biocatalysis and electrochemical synthesis, and the substitution of hazardous feedstocks with renewable alternatives. Computational tools such as reaction screening, process modeling, and life-cycle assessment are integral to evaluating sustainability performance before scale-up.

Applications span pharmaceuticals, polymers, energy storage, and environmental technologies. Academic programs and industry research groups often pursue suchem through interdisciplinary teams combining chemistry, chemical engineering, environmental science, and data analytics. Metrics such as atom economy, E-factor, mass and energy intensity, and life-cycle impact guide project selection and optimization.

Because sustainability criteria can conflict with cost or performance goals, the field has faced criticism regarding metrics standardization and real-world adoption. Proponents emphasize transparent reporting and lifecycle thinking, while critics caution against overreliance on surrogate indicators.