Abstract

Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) are expected to play a pivotal role in many future chemical segments, in particular when sustainability aspects are considered. This article provides an overview of the recent granted patents related to DES, what reflects many of the practical applications that can be conceived. In the entire history of DES, more than one hundred patents have been identified, reporting strategies for areas like (bio)refineries, extraction of natural products, purification of effluents, organic synthesis, batteries, materials, etc. In many of these cases DES are not considered to be mere innocent solvents, but their properties are tuned and adapted for the desired goals. Overall, the patent analysis reflects the potential that DES may have as emerging solutions for the Sustainable Chemistry of the future.