What historical examples does the article cite to illustrate the ancient origins of mechanochemistry?

The article cites two historical examples: early humans using friction to create fire approximately 400,000 years ago, and Theophrastus in ancient Greece observing that cinnabar could be reduced to mercury through grinding with a mortar and pestle.

According to the article, what are the two main modern applications of mechanochemistry, and what evidence suggests its academic interest is growing while commercial adoption remains limited?

The article states that modern mechanochemistry is promoted both as a method for conducting existing chemical reactions without solvents and as a means to carry out entirely new chemical processes. It notes that interest among academic chemists is high—evidenced by an increasing number of journal articles—but that a relatively low number of patent filings indicates widespread commercial adoption lags behind.

Will Mechanochemistry Come Into Its Own?

Aug 3, 2026

Academic interest in solvent-free mechanochemistry is rising, yet commercial adoption remains limited according to patent data. This C&EN and CAS analysis examines if the technology can transition from laboratory research to industrial application.