A review on the synthesis of bio-based surfactants using green chemistry principles

Abstract

Objectives With increasing awareness of the potential adverse impact of conventional surfactants on the environment and human health, there is mounting interest in the development of bio-based surfactants (which are deemed to be safer, more affordable, are in abundance, are biodegradable, biocompatible and possess scalability, mildness and performance in formulation) in personal care products. Method A comprehensive literature review around alkyl polyglucosides (APGs) and sucrose esters (SEs) as bio-based surfactants, through the lens of the 12 green chemistry principles was conducted. An overview of the use of bio-based surfactants in personal care products was also provided. Results Bio-based surfactants are derived primarily from natural sources (i.e. both the head and tail molecular group). One of the more common types of bio-based surfactants are those with carbohydrate head groups, where alkyl polyglucosides (APGs) and sucrose esters (SEs) lead this sub-category. As global regulations and user mandate for sustainability and safety increase, evidence to further support these bio-based surfactants as alternatives to their petrochemical counterparts is advantageous. Use of the green chemistry framework is a suitable way to do this. While many of the discussed principles are enforced industrially, others have only yet been applied at a laboratory scale or are not apparent in literature. Conclusion Many of the principles of green chemistry are currently used in the synthesis of APGs and SEs. These and other bio-based surfactants should, therefore, be considered suitable and sustainable alternatives to conventional surfactants. To further encourage the use of these novel surfactants, industry must make an effort to implement and improve the use of the remaining principles at a commercial level. Graphical abstract

Benefits of using nonionic saccharide surfactant‐based detergents for nanostructured fluids as stubborn graffiti paint remover

“…At this point, it should be emphasized that the addition of a surfactant type of APG in nanodetergents used as graffiti removers is extremely significant (Carnero Ruiz, 2008; Stubbs et al, 2022). By energetically lowering the polymer (paint)/biosolvent interfacial tension, as well as polymer (paint)/solid system, it supports the optimum distribution of the detergent on the surface of the paint layer, while also encouraging optimal penetration into its depth (Laska et al, 2006; Wilk et al, 2009).…”

Harnessing a Biocatalyst to Bioremediate the Purification of Alkylglycosides

“…As an archetypal system and to encompass industrial relevance, we looked to manufacturing processes that traditionally use distillation to purify bio-based surfactants, a pertinent context as the world moves to develop sustainable manufacturing processes and replace traditional petroleum derived materials. [9] Within this framework, alkyl mono-and poly-glycosides (APGs, a sugar or sugars attached to an alkyl chain) have emerged as biodegradable, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic nonionic surfactants that are readily produced from renewable raw materials. [10][11][12] These materials have important application and market profiles, for example within the cosmetic and fermentation industries.…”

Wettability of Graffiti Coatings by Green Nanostructured Fluids

“…[12] The spreading dynamics of nanodetergents on graffiti coatings is influenced not only by surface characteristics but also the composition of the nanodetergent formulation itself. [13][14][15][16][17] The selection of suitable surfactants and solvents plays a crucial role in obtaining optimal spreading and penetration. [13,14] In previous research, [1,4,5,17] the D-Optimal model was employed for conducting Response Surface Methodology (RSM) experiments.…”

“…[13][14][15][16][17] The selection of suitable surfactants and solvents plays a crucial role in obtaining optimal spreading and penetration. [13,14] In previous research, [1,4,5,17] the D-Optimal model was employed for conducting Response Surface Methodology (RSM) experiments. This approach, in conjunction with ANOVA analysis, facilitated the identification of the optimal graffiti eradication preparation within the mild and environmentally benign surfactant category.…”