Are deep eutectic solvents useful in chromatography? A short review

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) are emerging as sustainable alternatives in various chemical applications.
• Chromatography relies heavily on solvents, with a growing need for environmentally friendly options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) applications in chromatography from 2010-2020.
• To evaluate the performance and green characteristics of DES compared to traditional solvents and Ionic Liquids (ILs).

Main Methods:

• Literature search conducted in Web of Science and Scopus databases.
• Analysis of studies utilizing DES as mobile phases, stationary phases, and reaction media in chromatography.
• Comparison of DES with Ionic Liquids (ILs) and conventional organic solvents.

Main Results:

• DES have been successfully employed as mobile phases, mobile phase additives, stationary phases, and solid-phase modifiers in chromatography.
• DES demonstrate significant green advantages over traditional organic solvents and Ionic Liquids (ILs).
• Specific applications include various chromatographic techniques, highlighting their versatility.

Conclusions:

• Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) represent a promising class of green solvents for diverse chromatography applications.
• Further research into their drawbacks and future potential is warranted to fully exploit their capabilities in separation science.