20PH76 FINAL THESIS (8) - PDF to Video
Published on Aug 21, 2026
Description:
7
ABSTRACT
The disposal of expired medications poses a significant challenge, contributing to
pharmaceutical waste and environmental pollution while also impacting pharmaceutical
company profits. To address this issue, our project focuses on utilizing near to expiry
paracetamol tablets as a primary ingredient for synthesizing azo dye, a crucial component
that contributes to 50% of the textile industry's total revenue as a colorant. Our research
methodology involves extracting the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) from the near
to expiry paracetamol formulation, followed by conversion reactions to obtain the initial
reactant necessary for azo dye synthesis. Analytical testing is then conducted to ensure the
purity of the obtained compound. By reutilizing expired medications in this innovative
manner, our research aims to alleviate both the economic burden and environmental threats
associated with pharmaceutical waste. This approach not only offers a sustainable solution
to medication disposal but also introduces a novel method of maximizing resources through
waste utilization.
Keywords: Paracetamol Tablets, Para Aminophenol , Azo Dye, Waste management.8
CONTENTS
Chapter No. Contents Page No.
1 Introduction 12
2 Literature review 19
3 Aim and objective 21
4 Plan of work 22
5 Materials and methods 23
6 Result and discussion 30
7 Conclusion 36
8 References 38
9 Appendix 399
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure No. Figure Label Page No
1. Scheme reaction for synthesis of Azo dye 13
2. TLC Apparatus 16
3. HPLC machine 17
4. Melting point and Boiling point apparatus 18
5. Structure of Paracetamol 23
6. Structure of Para-aminophenol 24
7. Structure of n-heptane 24
8. Structure of 2-naphthol 25
9. Structure of Iso-propyl alcohol 26
10. Scheme reaction for recovery of Paracetamol
from expired tablets
27
11. Hydrolysis pathway for Paracetamol 28
12. Reflux of Para aminophenol 28
13. Para aminophenol obtained through reflux 28
14. Scheme reaction for synthesis of Azo dye 29
15. Melting point of recovered compound 30
16. TLC of Paracetamol 30
17. Melting point of Para-aminophenol 32
18. TLC of Para-aminophenol 32
19. Result of Chemical Test 33
20. Melting point of Azo dye 34
21. Color Fastness Test 34
22. Ph sensitivity Test 34
23. Azo Dye 3410
LIST OF TABLES
Table No. Table Title. Page No.
1. Instrumentation detail used in analysis of the
compound
16
2. Chemical and Physical properties of
Paracetamol
23
3. Chemical and Physical properties of Paraaminophenol
24
4. Chemical and Physical properties of n-heptane 25
5. Chemical and Physical properties of 2-naphthol 25
6. Chemical and Physical properties of iso-propyl
alcohol
2610
LIST OF GRAPHS
Graph No. Graph Title. Page No.
1. Chromatogram of Standard Paracetamol drug 31
2. Chromatogram of (test) recovered compound 3112
1. INTRODUCTION
The exponential growth of the pharmaceutical sector globally is indisputable, with India
emerging as a significant player in this landscape. Ranking fifth in global pharmaceutical
production, India's industry has contributed substantially to meeting the growing demand for
medications while enhancing accessibility and affordability. However, this growth has brought
forth a concerning issue: the accumulation of unused or expired pharmaceuticals. Research
suggests that nearly half of all medications are not utilized correctly, leading to significant
wastage. Improper disposal of these medications not only impacts economic efficiency but also
poses environmental risks, exacerbating pollution levels. Despite India's robust pharmaceutical
industry, there exists a noticeable gap in regulatory oversight and guidelines for proper
medication disposal at the household level, resulting in stockpiling and increasing the risk of
misuse or poisoning.
The Indian pharmaceutical market stands as a cornerstone of the nation's economy, boasting a
domestic value of $42 billion, complemented by robust exports ranging between $30 to $32
billion. This thriving industry, comprised of around 3000 companies, fuels manufacturing
activity worth an impressive $75 to $80 billion. However, despite its vitality, the industry faces
a notable challenge with approximately $63 million worth of pharmaceutical products expiring
annually. This expiration rate, while representing only 1.5% of the domestic market,
underscores the importance of efficient inventory management and distribution practices.
Nonetheless, India's pharmaceutical prowess remains a significant driver of economic growth
and global healthcare provision, reflecting the nation's expertise and contribution to the
international pharmaceutical landscape.
Among the most pressing concerns is the accumulation of near to expiry paracetamol and
similar medications in water systems, posing grave risks to ecosystems and human health.
Paracetamol, widely used as a pain reliever and fever reducer, presents an alarming case due
to its persistence in water sources and resistance to conventional filtration methods. The
transformation of pharmaceuticals in the environment raises serious concerns about their
impact on ecosystems and human health, underscoring the urgent need for regulatory measures
and assessment frameworks to address the improper use and disposal of pharmaceuticals,
including expired medications. Such initiatives are vital not only for mitigating the risks posed
by pharmaceutical waste but also for ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the
pharmaceutical sector in India and worldwide.
To tackle this multifaceted issue effectively, a comprehensive approach is required. This
includes strengthening regulatory frameworks to enforce proper disposal practices at all levels,
from manufacturing to end-users. Public awareness campaigns and educational initiatives are
also crucial to inform individuals about the importance of correct medication usage and
disposal. Additionally, investment in research and development of environmentally friendly
pharmaceutical formulations and disposal methods is essential to minimize the environmental
footprint of the industry. Collaboration among government, pharma, healthcare, and
environmental sectors is vital to tackle pharmaceutical waste, ensuring industry sustainability
and protecting human health and the environment.13
Paracetamol, sourced from various outlets like domestic wastewater, hospital effluents, and
pharmaceutical manufacturing runoff, enters the environment alongside its degradation
byproduct, 4-aminophenol. This contamination poses a significant challenge due to its
involvement in the production of azo dyes and photographic materials. Para-aminophenol
serves as a crucial component in synthesizing various azo dyes, including mono-azo and disazo types, pivotal in industries like textiles. Recent research has underscored its importance by
revealing its role as a coupling component in azo dye synthesis, highlighting its ongoing
relevance and versatility in dye chemistry studies. This emphasizes the necessity of addressing
its environmental impact while ensuring the sustainability of industries dependent on textile
coloration.
PARACETAMAOL AZO DYE
Fig 1: Scheme reaction for the synthesis of Azo dye14
PARACETAMOL
Paracetamol is used as an analgesic and antipyretic drug. It is an widely used OTC drug. The
possible side effects of paracetamol are uncommon but can include allergic reactions, flushing,
low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, and blood disorders like thrombocytopenia and
leukopenia. Overdosing may result in liver and kidney damage, with severe cases being fatal.
MECHANISM OF ACTION:
Paracetamol exhibits COX-2 inhibitor-like effects, reducing inflammation and prostaglandin
levels, but doesn't suppress rheumatoid arthritis inflammation. Its selectivity may arise from
inhibiting COX-2-dependent pathways at low rates. The analgesic effect potentially involves
serotonin pathway activation, while its primary action likely remains prostaglandin synthesis
inhibition. COX-3's clinical relevance is doubtful.
PARA AMINOPHENOL
Para-Aminophenol, also known as Aminophenol or P-Aminophenol, is an organic compound
with the chemical formula H2NC6H4OH. It appears as white, reddish, or light brown crystals
and is typically found in powder form. While it is insoluble in chloroform, it can dissolve in
water, alcohol, and ether. Its significant consumption is noted as an intermediate in the
production of various compounds and reagents. Its applications span across several industries
including dye manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and more. The pharmaceutical and
cosmetic sectors, in particular, are witnessing a surge in demand for Para-Aminophenol,
contributing to market growth. It serves as a crucial ingredient in the production of drugs like
Acebutolol, Paracetamol, Ambroxol, and geftinib. In cosmetics, it's favored for its role in
producing sulfur red-brown hair dyes.
Para-aminophenol indeed serves as a crucial precursor for various azo dyes, including monoazo and dis-azo dyes, which find commercial use in industries such as textiles. While monoazo dyes are more commonly derived from para-aminophenol, dis-azo dyes like CI Disperse
Yellow 68 have been synthesized using para-aminophenol, albeit with coupling components
like aniline and phenol. Additionally, dis-azo dyes with favorable dyeing properties on
polyester and nylon substrates have been successfully prepared from para-aminophenol,
showcasing its versatility in dye synthesis. Despite its utility, inhalation of Para-Aminophenol
can lead to health issues such as breathing difficulties, skin allergies, and rashes, potentially
hindering market growth.
AZO DYE
Azo dyes are synthetic organic compounds characterized by the presence of the functional
group R−N=N−R′, with R and R′ typically representing aryl and substituted aryl groups. They
constitute a significant class of azo compounds, featuring the C-N=N-C linkage, and are vital
in various industries, including food and textiles. Unlike natural dyes, azo dyes are entirely
human-made. While most azo dyes contain a single azo group, there are also diazo dyes with
two and tri azo dyes with three azo groups.
Azo dyes, constituting a substantial portion (60-70%) of dyes used in food and textile sectors,
find extensive application in treating textiles, leather goods, and certain food products.
Additionally, derivatives such as azo pigments, which are insoluble in water and other solvents,
are chemically related to azo dyes.15
THE AZO DYE ARE CLASSIFIED ARE AS FOLLOW AS:
1. Mono azo dyes: These dyes consist of a single nitrogen-nitrogen bond (𝑁 − 𝑁) within their
molecular structure.
2. Diazo dyes: Diazo dyes contain two (𝑁 = 𝑁)bonds, distinguishing them from monoazo
dyes.
3. Triazo dyes: Triazo dyes have three (𝑁 ≡ 𝑁)bonds in their chemical composition, setting
them apart from both monoazo and diazo dyes.
4. Polyazo dyes: Dyes falling into this category feature more than three (𝑁 ≡ 𝑁) bonds within
their molecular structure, representing a higher degree of complexity compared to monoazo,
diazo, and triazo dyes..
The different evaluation test for azo dye includes
Ph Sensitivity Test, Color Fastness Test, Melting Point and TLC.16
INSTRUMENTATION:
1. THIN LAYER CHROMATOGRAPHY
Preparation of plain silica gel H plates: Silica gel H plates were created by combining
silica gel H with double distilled water in a 1:3 ratio (w/v). The mixture was shaken for 10
minutes and then applied to clean glass plates using a TLC applicator, resulting in a layer
around 0.25 mm thick. The plates were dried at room temperature and activated by heating
at 100 ± 1°C for 1 hour. Following activation, the plates were stored in a desiccator.
Test solution: Five tablets of each drug were powdered and combined with 25 mL of
methanol in a 50 mL flask. After sonication for 40 minutes, the solution was filtered and
washed with methanol. The filtrate was then diluted to 50 mL with methanol, resulting in a
5 mg/mL (w/v) drug solution.
Detection agent: Iodine vapor served as the detection reagent for the drugs. Different colors
were observed for each: Paracetamol exhibited a black-brown spot.
Formula:
Rf value: Distance travelled by solute front / Distance travelled by the
solvent
Fig 2: TLC Apparatus