Objective 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. Fields of science natural scienceschemical scienceselectrochemistrynatural scienceschemical sciencesphysical chemistryquantum chemistrynatural sciencescomputer and information sciencesartificial intelligenceexpert systemsengineering and technologychemical engineeringseparation technologies Programme(s) FP7-PEOPLE - Specific programme "People" implementing the Seventh Framework Programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007 to 2013) Topic(s) FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IIF - Marie Curie Action: "International Incoming Fellowships" Call for proposal FP7-PEOPLE-2012-IIF See other projects for this call Funding Scheme MC-IIF - International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) Coordinator THE UNIVERSITY OF MANCHESTER EU contribution € 309 235,20 Address OXFORD ROAD M13 9PL Manchester United Kingdom See on map Region North West (England) Greater Manchester Manchester Activity type Higher or Secondary Education Establishments Administrative Contact Liz Fay (Ms.) Links Contact the organisation Opens in new window Website Opens in new window Total cost No data