Analytical Eco-Scale for assessing the greenness of analytical procedures

We propose the analytical Eco-Scale as a novel comprehensive approach to evaluating the greenness of analytical methodology. It is based on assigning penalty points to parameters of an analytical process that are not in agreement with the ideal green analysis. This approach compares different parameters and different steps of the analytical process.Traditional green chemistry metrics (e.g., Atom Economy, E-factor and Reaction Mass Efficiency), which were introduced for organic preparations, do not usually fit the purposes of green analytical chemistry. Existing databases for evaluation of green analytical methods refer to known procedures and instruments, and do not encourage new, more environmentally-friendly equivalents.As an alternative to traditional green chemistry metrics, the analytical Eco-Scale can be a good, semi-quantitative tool.

► An analytical Eco-Scale is proposed as a tool for green analysis evaluation. ► Limitations of existing green analytical metrics are presented. ► The greenness of every step of a multi-stage analytical process is discussed. ► A method of analytical Eco-Scale calculation is explained. ► Examples of the Eco-Scale values for several laboratory procedures are given.