Nanostructuring and macroscopic behavior of type V deep eutectic solvents based on monoterpenoids

Area of Science:

• Green Chemistry
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) are gaining attention as sustainable alternatives to conventional solvents.
• Monoterpenoids, derived from natural sources, represent a promising class of compounds for NADES development.
• Understanding the physicochemical and nanoscopic properties of NADES is crucial for their application.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Type V NADES formed from monoterpenoids (cineole, carvone, menthol, thymol).
• To characterize their physicochemical properties and nanoscopic behavior.
• To assess their potential for technological applications.

Main Methods:

• Experimental characterization of physicochemical properties (e.g., viscosity) as a function of temperature.
• Molecular modeling, including quantum chemistry and classical molecular dynamics simulations.
• Nanoscopic characterization focusing on hydrogen bonding networks.

Main Results:

• Type V NADES exhibited low viscosity and temperature-dependent properties.
• Molecular modeling provided insights into the hydrogen bonding network at the nanoscale.
• The nanoscopic structure was correlated with macroscopic properties.
• Monoterpenoid-based NADES showed potential for various applications.

Conclusions:

• Type V NADES based on monoterpenoids are viable, sustainable, and cost-effective solvents.
• Their tunable properties and green origin make them suitable for diverse technological applications.
• This study highlights the potential for developing novel NADES from the terpenoid family.