Deep eutectic solvents as green solvents for materials preparation

Abstract

The concept of sustainability has progressively evolved into a consensus for achieving long-term development, and the significance of solvents in regard to green chemistry and sustainable processes cannot be underestimated. Hydrogen-bonding interactions and heterogeneity at the nanoscale determine the outstanding solvating properties of deep eutectic solvents (DESs). A relatively wide electrochemical window is the prerequisite for the preparation of more materials (especially active metals) by electrodeposition in these eutectic systems. The role of DESs in the fabrication process may be chemical or physical, although the line between the two is blurred. At times, DESs function as a reducing agent, while in other cases they solely provide a liquid environment to facilitate the reaction. This review provides a set of methodologies to guide the preparation of materials with specific morphology and functions.