An outline of DESs, or deep eutectic solvents: A new family of environmentally friendly solvents

Abstract:

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs), which are distinguished by their notable melting point depressions relative to their pristine constituent components, have emerged as a revolutionary green and sustainable solvent. With a variety of adjustable physicochemical characteristics, DESs are regarded as affordable “designer” solvents. The inability to foresee the microscopic processes executing the structure-property connections in this class of solvents is demonstrated by a thorough analysis of the recent literature. In DESs, the substantial hydrogen bonding is the main source of the physicochemical characteristics and melting point depressions. Understanding these systems as dynamic entities through simulations and experiments is essential. The current chapter discusses the fundamentals of DES as well as current research developments. Additionally, it highlights the latest developments in DES research, presents a high level of scientific comprehension, and identifies possible research directions related to the field’s advancement towards predictive models and fundamental understanding of these solvents. Keywords: Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES), Green solvent, Hydrogen bonding