Benzocaine Innovation Power

CHALLENGE CLOSED

Benzocaine (Et-PABA) was first discovered in 1890 by the German chemist Eduard Ritsert. In 1902 it was marketed under the name "Anesthäsin". Benzocaine (Et-PABA) is mostly used in a wide range of medical procedures, for example, as a local anaesthetic, cough medicine, or analgesics.

For the synthesis of Benzocaine (Et-PABA), p-aminobenzoic acid "PABA" in 99% purity is usually used by applying the so-called Fischer esterification reaction. Non-pharmaceutical applications of Benzocaine (Et-PABA), however, do not always benefit from a high purity of the synthesis material, which is achieved with a corresponding financial outlay.

The production of p-aminobenzoic acid, PABA, with a purity below 99% and above 95% with a corresponding lower cost has not been reported so far. At the same time, a broad selection of PABA substitutes is missing. Thus, the wider use of PABA and Benzocaine (Et-PABA) is prevented in non-pharmaceutical applications.

Together with our partner Evonik Industries AG (www.evonik.com), we are therefore looking for new ways to accelerate the potential of broader use of Benzocaine (Et-PABA) and its structural analogues. You have numerous opportunities to participate – From the identification of suitable suppliers by market exploration to the development of novel chemical processes for PABA or Benzocaine (Et-PABA), their substitutes or completely new substances.

To participate in this challenge, you can use one of the following four tracks to help unfold the potential of Benzocaine (Et-PABA)/PABA.

IDENTIFY AN EFFICIENT MANUFACTURER/SUPPLIER

The first option to participate in the challenge is to find and communicate a cost-effective supplier or manufacturer for Benzocaine (Et-PABA) or PABA of 95% or more percent purity.

OFFER OR DEVELOP ALTERNATIVE MANUFACTURING METHODS

The second way of participating is to develop or (as a manufacturer) offer an alternative manufacturing method of PABA or Benzocaine (Et-PABA), which is more cost-effective to use than conventional methods or productions. If chosen, the produced PABA can have a purity of between 95-99%. A theoretical concept of an efficient/innovative production method is sufficient to participate.

DEVELOP A PABA SUBSTITUTE

The third option to participate is by developing a non-pharmaceutical grade substance that is similar to PABA in its chemical structure and can replace it as a synthetic material for the production of Benzocaine (Et-PABA). Ideally, the developed substance is also cost-effective to produce. A theoretical concept of a PABA substitute is sufficient to participate.

DEVELOP A BENZOCAINE (Et-PABA) SUBSTITUTE

The fourth option to participate is by developing a substance that equals Benzocaine (Et-PABA) in its chemical structure and has the same properties. Ideally, the developed substance is also cost-effective to produce. A theoretical concept of a new Benzocaine (Et-PABA) substitute is sufficient to participate.

Feb. 10th, 2020