Sustainable Solutions in Gas Separation: Exploring the Potential of Deep Eutectic Solvents

In the face of escalating environmental concerns, particularly related to greenhouse gas emissions, this study delves into the potential of Deep Eutectic Solvents (DESs) as a sustainable alternative in gas separation technologies. Focusing on the significant emissions of CO2, SO2, and H2S from industrial processes, this work reviews the application of DESs for their capture and separation. We investigate the physical properties of DESs, such as solubility and viscosity, which are crucial for their efficacy as sorbents. This review includes a comprehensive analysis of various DES formulations, exploring their roles in CO2 absorption, SO2 removal, and the separation of other gases like H2S. Additionally, we extend our examination to the applicability of DESs in the oil and gas industry, highlighting their effectiveness in removing sulfur and nitrogen impurities, and their potential in the extraction of organic constituents. The study reveals that DESs, characterized by their biodegradability and environmental sustainability, offer promising performance in gas separation, aligning with the principles of green chemistry. However, challenges such as high viscosity and the need for further understanding of their solubility dynamics under different conditions are addressed. This work underscores the importance of DESs as novel sorbents for gas purification and sets a foundation for future research aimed at enhancing their application on a broader industrial scale.