Salty solvents – ionic really

Solvents, in particular volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are used in the manufacturing and processing of almost every product we use. By their nature they are relatively small molecules that have weak intermolecular forces between them, making them highly volatile. They are also flammable and often toxic. Each year the UK emits about half a million tonnes of VOCs into the lower atmosphere from solvent use alone and these become involved in the ozone cycle, leading to a destruction of the protective ozone layer in the atmosphere. With the current emphasis on 'greening' the chemical industry - ie making its operations safer and environmentally acceptable - there has been much interest in finding non-volatile solvents as replacements.