Ionic Liquids in Bioseparation Processes

Abstract

Bioseparation processes are a relevant part of modern biotechnology, particularly regarding the development of efficient and biocompatible methods for the separation and purification of added-value biologically active compounds. In this field, ionic liquids (ILs) have been proposed, either in liquid-liquid extractions, in which non-water miscible ILs or aqueous biphasic systems (ABS) formed by ILs can be used, or in solid-liquid extractions, in which they are covalently attached to create supported IL phases (SILPs). Aprotic ILs possess unique properties, such as non-volatility and designability, which are valuable in their use in bioseparation processes. In this chapter, we summarize and discuss bioseparation processes based on ILs, including both liquid-liquid and solid-liquid extractions, applied to amino acids and proteins. The most recent and remarkable advances in this area are emphasized, and improvements brought by the use of ILs properly discussed. New insights and envisaged directions with IL-based bioseparation processes are suggested. Graphical Abstract.

In Situ Synthesis of Protic Ionic Liquids for Biomass Pretreatment

“…Ionic liquids (ILs) are versatile and efficient solvents that have generated interest across a variety of applications in energy storage, separations, and bioprocessing. , Due to their unique thermal properties (low vapor pressure) and tailorability (i.e., their key physicochemical characteristics are linked to unique cation/anion combinations), they have been generally considered sustainable replacements for molecular solvents. , In particular, their ability to facilitate molecular-level interactions between complex biopolymers and macromolecules (like lignin and cellulose) has made these solvents significant in the field of biomass processing and bioenergy production (among others). − Nevertheless, the cost of many promising ILs remains prohibitively high for their use in biomass deconstruction when compared to a standard low-cost dilute sulfuric acid-based process, thus limiting process scalability and commercialization. , …”