New solutions for green chemistry
The international research team FOR 5730 "Customized Deep Eutectic Solvents for Biocatalysis - DESMOL2PRO," with the participation of Otto von Guericke University, is seeking new approaches for the environmentally and climate-friendly transformation of the chemical industry. Nine teams from Germany, Austria, and Croatia will jointly investigate how so-called deep eutectic solvents (DES) affect enzymes in biocatalytic reactions.
The research project aims to develop non-toxic, biodegradable solvents from renewable raw materials , thus creating an alternative to conventional, mostly petroleum-based liquids such as acetone, methanol, or toluene. These novel solvents are intended to be specifically adapted for industrial applications and make biochemical processes cleaner, more efficient, and more recyclable.
The German Research Foundation has been funding the project with 3.2 million euros since 2025.
Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are mixtures of substances that represent a promising alternative to the mostly petroleum-based, often toxic, and generally poorly biodegradable solvents currently used in the chemical industry. DES, on the other hand, can often be produced from natural raw materials and organic compounds.
CDS member Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Jan von Langermann , co-spokesperson of the project and a chemist who has been conducting research at the Institute of Chemistry at the University of Magdeburg since 2022 as part of a Heisenberg Professorship, explains: "Enzymes are highly effective protein molecules that accelerate biochemical reactions in cells - similar to a catalyst in a car , only much more targeted and environmentally friendly. They enable biochemical reactions both inside and outside of cells at mild temperatures and without toxic by-products. This is why they are already being used in the production of medicines, food, and fine chemicals." The choice of the right solvent is crucial. Enzymes work poorly or not at all in conventional solvents. DES, on the other hand, can often preserve the structure and stability of enzymes, says the scientist.
The chemical industry is a key sector in Germany, with annual sales of around 260 billion euros (2023) and more than 475,000 employees. Solutions like DES could help reduce dependence on petroleum and build green value chains.
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Jan von Langermann has been appointed to a "Heisenberg Professorship" at the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg. This excellence appointment is funded by the DFG and aims to prepare outstanding scientists for leading scientific positions and to pursue advanced research topics during this time. Prof. Dr. Jan von Langermann works at the Institute of Chemistry at the University of Magdeburg, particularly at the interface between natural and engineering sciences in the field of applied biocatalysis. This involves the use of bio-based catalysts to produce chemicals that serve as building blocks for pharmaceutical and agrochemical products.
To the official press release of the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg