Additives in Biphasic Hydroformylation: An Analysis of the Influence of the Interfacial Area

The optimization of the homogeneously catalyzed biphasic hydroformylation has attracted considerable interest due to its potential to enhance chemical efficiency and product yields. In the past, evaluations of such processes primarily focused on conversion rates and selectivity with limited insights into the underlying interfacial phenomena. However, recent advances in analytical techniques like the implementation of high-pressure borescopy enabled a more comprehensive examination of these systems. This photo-optical approach allows for a precise in-situ visualization of the droplet size distribution in the reaction mixture and a calculation of the liquid-liquid interface, offering critical insights into the impact of the interfacial area on overall reaction efficiency. This review summarizes key optimization strategies while highlighting how this innovative measurement method can extend our understanding beyond conventional metrics in the multiphase hydroformylation.