Green development of molecularly imprinted polymers and the application in CO2 adsorption and separation: A review

Abstract

Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) are widely utilized in various fields, including industry, biology, and environmental science, due to their specific recognition capabilities, reusability, and high adsorption capacity. However, traditional methods for MIPs synthesis often lead to significant waste generation. With the increasing emphasis on green chemistry principles, molecular imprinting technology (MIT) is advancing toward sustainability. This review systematically summarizes the current state of green synthesis methodologies for MIPs by referencing classical cases from diverse fields. It discusses the use of eco-friendly reagents in synthetic formulations, advanced polymerization strategies, and intelligent computer-aided methods, among others. Furthermore, concerning the rapid severity of global warming, the application of molecularly imprinted adsorbents in CO₂ capture is discussed in detail in Section 4 of the review, integrating the knowledge from the first three chapters. Ultimately, this review proposes a conceptual framework for the preparation of CO₂-MIPs adsorbents that is consistent with the green chemistry principles. We believe that once the carbon tax is imposed on direct emissions, this review will provide a new perspective and specific recommendations for the green development of CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage) technology.