Entropic considerations in molecular design

New information on the safety of chemicals, combined with threats of dwindling natural resources, increased pollution, and evidence of climate change have created a new environment for chemical innovation. In this new environment, traditional elements of chemical and material syntheses, such as high energy input and waste output, are no longer suitable. Scientists and engineers can instead gain insight from nature, where entropy facilitates reactions at room temperature and ambient pressure, using water as a solvent. This paper addresses five general considerations based on entropy to guide and inspire scientists and engineers in designing more efficient and benign chemicals, materials, and processes.