Metal-Free Deep Eutectic Solvents: Preparation, Physical Properties, and Significance

In the past decade, reports detailing the preparation, characterization, and application of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have grown in number significantly, showing signs of increased interest and attention. Indeed, these systems provide tunable polar environments attractive for their ease of synthesis and lack of need for purification. DESs are homogeneous systems composed of two or more components having a significantly depressed melting point compared to either constituent material. As interest and application of DESs grow, the need for a common understanding of their preparation and characterization is required. In this Perspective, we discuss metal-free DESs, focusing on their preparation, characterization of physical properties, and considerations for their application. We highlight inconsistencies or omissions in literature reports as well as factors for researchers to consider when investigating these systems.