Green solvents from ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents to natural deep eutectic solvents

What if the secret to greener chemistry was hidden in everyday natural compounds like sugars and amino acids? Since bursting onto the scene in 2011, Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents have transformed how we think about eco-friendly science.

Imagine mixing solid, everyday natural ingredients—like sugars, organic acids, amino acids, and organic bases—in specific molar ratios. The result defies expectations: a liquid mixture with a melting point drastically lower than its individual parts and far below room temperature. Born out of a need to bypass the toxicity and environmental hazards of conventional synthetic ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents, NADESs emerged as true green alternatives.

Over seven years, scientific interest exploded, sparking an exponential rise in research. Scientists quickly put these versatile mixtures to the test across diverse fields. They are now used to extract targeted bioactive compounds from natural sources, serve as media for chemical and enzymatic reactions, preserve fragile compounds, and act as delivery vehicles for water-insoluble pharmaceuticals.

Of course, science is never without its hurdles. Researchers are actively exploring the complex physicochemical features of NADESs, seeking out novel combinations, and tackling practical challenges—such as their characteristically high viscosity that makes handling tricky. Ultimately, these fluids represent a fascinating frontier in sustainable chemistry.

Key Points

• Made from abundant natural compounds like sugars and amino acids
• Melting points drop drastically below ambient temperature
• Applied in extraction, reaction media, and preservation