The perfect match between macroalgae and eutectic solvents as a sustainable gateway to ready-to-use extracts towards a (blue + green) economy ─ A perspective review

Abstract

The article discusses how aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) can foster a sustainable economy, mainly through the (green + blue) economy, which involves valorizing macroalgae to produce ready-to-use extracts. It focuses on the potential of eutectic solvents (commonly known as deep eutectic solvents - DES) as promising candidates for this purpose. Traditional methods for extracting bioactive compounds from macroalgae, which rely on organic solvents and aqueous buffers, often involve harsh conditions and extensive processing. These factors can lead to reduced extract quality and/or low yields. In contrast, if properly designed, DES presents a green and sustainable alternative. They offer advantages such as low volatility, adjustable polarity, and negligible toxicity, making them a more environmentally friendly and efficient option for extraction processes. They can be customized to enhance both biological and technological properties, resulting in extracts with unique characteristics such as increased antioxidant activity, antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects, as well as improving the viscoelasticity of polysaccharides (fucoidans, alginates, and κ-carrageenan) from macroalgae. In this sense, the tunable nature of DES enables the optimization of extraction conditions to maximize yield, purity, and bioactivity, making it a smart alternative for producing bio-based products. Despite limited literature on DES for this purpose, the article highlights their potential and outlines the main advantages and challenges needed for macroalgae valorization.

Keywords: Biorefinery; Blue Economy; Eutectic Solvents; Extraction; Green Chemistry; Renewable Solvents.