Objetivo
Ionic liquids (ILs) are a modern addition to the world of chemical compounds, deployed in areas ranging from electrochemistry, over organic synthesis, to cleaning, extraction and separation technology. Their unique negligible vapor pressure, non-flammability, enhanced thermal stability and outstanding solvation potential make them ‘‘green’’ solvents. However, their toxicity needs to be understood and controlled, which is a challenge. Indeed, countless possible cation-anion combinations create billions of possible ILs, which calls for a rapid and reliable toxicity prediction. This can only be achieved through computation. Quantitative structure-property relationships (QSPR) solve the problem created by the current stringent environmental regulations and the impossibility of costly and time consuming experimental determination. This is why the EU-implemented REACH regulation recommends valid QSPRs for predicting ecotoxicity when experimental data are not available. In the present project, ecotoxicological models for ILs will be developed in silico, obeying OECD principles, based on available toxicity data against various endpoints. Considering the ever growing interest in ILs, truly predictive QSPR models will be highly advantageous in designing desired ILs. We emphasize proper external validation, partially through new and stringent statistical measures. We combine this attitude with our two complementary strengths: physicochemical parameters rooted in quantum chemistry and rigorous chemometrics. Both the host and researcher have long experience in ecotoxicological QSAR modelling and they have expertise in complementary areas ensuring true transfer of knowledge. The project also aims to establish collaboration with experimental toxicologists of the University of Manchester for experimental validation of the developed models. This will deliver innovative QSPR models and expert systems for predicting toxicity of ILs, ready for European regulatory purposes.
Ámbito científico
Convocatoria de propuestas
FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IIF
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Régimen de financiación
MC-IIF - International Incoming Fellowships (IIF)Coordinador
M13 9PL Manchester
Reino Unido