Deep Eutectic Solvents towards green polymeric materials

Abstract

Solvents are essential for chemical synthesis and material preparation, yet traditional options face challenges in meeting safety and sustainability standards. Consequently, there is a growing focus on environmentally friendly solvent systems for polymeric materials, with deep eutectic solvents (DES) standing out as a promising alternative due to their eco-friendly attributes. In this review, we summarized the studies of this novel solvent system in a broad range of applications, where DES plays multiple roles in polymer synthesis and corresponding material fabrication. In detail, we focus on the utilization of DESs in the synthesis of green polymers and related functional polymeric materials ranging from soft materials such as gels, nanofibers to membranes, films and complex architectures generated from techniques such as 3D printing, electrospinning, self-assembly with their properties. Moreover, we discuss the green credentials with sustainability analysis and life cycle assessment of DES-based polymeric materials. We believe this review will inspire more investigation into the use of DES for functional green polymeric materials toward sustainable future.