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Breakthrough Study Utilizes Porous Liquids for Environmental and Health Benefits
In a pioneering study, researchers have innovatively employed porous liquids to achieve liquid-liquid separation, marking a significant step toward enhancing environmental sustainability and public health.
This groundbreaking research, led by scientists from the University of Birmingham and Queen’s University Belfast, reveals that porous liquids, characterized by their permanent cavities, can effectively isolate harmful alcohols from aqueous mixtures. The findings have been published in the esteemed journal Angewandte Chemie International Edition.
The study specifically addresses a critical challenge faced by the aeronautical industry concerning the environmentally detrimental de-icer monoethylene glycol (MEG). This substance, when mixed with water for de-icing operations, generates toxic runoff that poses severe threats to aquatic ecosystems. Through their research, the team demonstrated the capability of Type 3 porous liquids to effectively absorb MEG while leaving the surrounding water intact, achieving an absorption rate of up to 88% of the PL pore volume in some experiments.
The implications of this discovery prompted the researchers to explore further applications of this novel method of liquid-liquid extraction in various sectors, including beverage manufacturing. The team tested a non-toxic, pH-resistant porous liquid and successfully diminished the alcohol content in gin and wine, a process that has the potential to retain the drinks’ flavor while catering to the rising consumer preference for lower-alcohol options.
Assistant Professor Deborah Crawford from the University of Birmingham emphasized the promise of this breakthrough, stating, “Porous liquids were first introduced over a decade ago by Professor Stuart James at Queen’s University Belfast, but this represents the first application of these substances in liquid-liquid extraction.” She highlighted the practical implications of the study, saying, “During our visits to airports, we encountered vast amounts of MEG-water waste that remains unprocessed. These hazardous mixtures are simply stored, as they cannot be safely disposed of in the environment. Our experiments confirm that porous liquids can offer a viable method to extract MEG from these solutions.”
Moreover, Crawford pointed out the consumer demand for low-alcohol beverages, noting, “Our innovative process has allowed us to create low-alcohol gin and wine options that maintain desirable flavors—an area where many low- or no-alcohol brands struggle. This advancement could fundamentally transform the beverage manufacturing landscape, aligning with consumers seeking alternatives that mimic their favorite drinks while minimizing unpleasant aftereffects. We are excited about the potential for further development and eventual implementation of this concept.”
More information: Beibei Lai et al, Using Porous Liquids to Perform Liquid‐Liquid Separations, Angewandte Chemie International Edition (2024). DOI: 10.1002/anie.202409894
Citation: First liquid-liquid extraction trial finds porous liquids can separate harmful or unwanted alcohols from mixtures (2024, September 18) retrieved 18 September 2024 from https://phys.org/news/2024-09-liquid-trial-porous-liquids-unwanted.html
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