Robotic-assisted synthesis optimization of benzylphophonic acid using six-sigma quality methods

ORGN 799

David B. Engel and Donald W. Whisenhunt Jr. Combinatorial Chemistry Laboratory, General Electric Global Research, One Research Circle, Niskayuna, NY 12309
The Six-Sigma quality methodology was successfully applied to optimize the synthesis of benzylphosphonic acid. The study was performed using a robotic workstation coupled with factorial design of experiments (DOE). Results indicated that reaction temperature was the most important factor compared to reaction time and agitation. The overall yield of the synthesis was increased from 65% to 94% with a process capability increment of 5.1 sigma.