Deep eutectic solvents towards green polymeric materials

Abstract

Solvents are essential for chemical synthesis and material preparation; however, traditional solvents 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 (DESs) standing out as promising alternatives owing to their eco-friendly attributes. In this review, we summarize studies on this novel solvent system in a broad range of applications, where DESs play 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 and nanofibers to membranes, films, and complex architectures generated from various techniques such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and self-assembly, together with their properties. Moreover, we discuss the green credentials through sustainability analysis and life-cycle assessment of DES-based polymeric materials. We believe this review will inspire more investigation into the use of DESs for functional green polymeric materials towards a sustainable future.