A simple overview of toxicity of ionic liquids and designs of biocompatible ionic liquids

Abstract

Evaluation of toxicity of ionic liquids has been less prioritized, compared to the development of new ionic liquids and their applications. Focus on the toxicity of ionic liquids should be enhanced, since ionic liquids have been intensively industrialized for decades. Their toxicity is related to not only biological applications but also others, since accidents, such as leakage, can occur at any time. This current review aims at systematically summarizing the general trend between the chemical structure and toxicity of ionic liquids across biological species. It also provides a perspective on the current strategies for the development of low-toxicity ionic liquids and their applications.