The Role of Micelles in Modern Sample Preparation Techniques for More Efficient and Sustainable Practices

Micelles, formed from surfactants, offer alternative media for separation and detection techniques, addressing challenges such as sample complexity, method sensitivity and selectivity, analysis cost and time, and environmental impact. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) plays a pivotal role in micelle formation, with normal and reverse micelles being the main structures observed. Additionally, niosomes and liposomes contribute to sample preparation methods. Polymeric micelles exhibit a core-shell configuration, allowing for modification of their properties. Micellar systems find application in various techniques, including cloud point extraction (CPE), coacervation extraction, microextraction, and supercritical fluid extraction. CPE offers environmentally friendly and cost-effective extraction, enhancing analyte solubility and detection limits. The review further discusses the applications of micellar systems in CPE, including the analysis of hazardous organic impurities and the purification of biological compounds. Metal-CPE is explored as a method for extracting organically chelated metals. The utilization of micellar systems in sample preparation showcases their potential in improving analytical methodologies.