The Solvent Miscibility Table Updated: Miscibility and Potential Applications of Green Solvents

Abstract

Green solvents play a central role in the design of more sustainable chemical processes. Among properties influencing solvent selection, miscibility is important, especially during the work-up and analysis steps. However, traditional miscibility tables are limited in scope as they have not been updated with emerging green solvents. In this study, the miscibility of 28 green solvents was evaluated visually and the results presented on an updated miscibility table. The choice of solvents was based on the CHEM21 solvent selection guide and included four additional solvents that were not included initially based on their potential synthetic route from biomass. Nine traditional hazardous solvents were included for comparison and to facilitate potential substitution strategies, but in general, solvents that are known to toxic and/or facing restrictions were not included to de-incentivise their use. Selection criteria of the solvents were outlined, and illustrative application examples for both miscible and immiscible solvent pairs were provided to support practical application of green solvents.