Electromagnetic wave driven chemical reactions

Most chemical reaction processes require a certain amount of energy input, known as activation energy, for the reaction to go forward. The activation energy can be provided to the reacting molecules in the form of heat, electricity, electromagnetic (EM) waves, or a combination of these. This article discusses the theory, practice, and technical aspects of activation of chemical reactions using electromagnetic waves (EMWs) as the energy input, instead of heat or electricity. The matching condition between the EM wavelength and the thermal activation energy is discussed, as well as the practical considerations for the application of the EMW-driven chemical reactions.