Aqueous two-phase extraction, also known as two-phase liquid extraction, is a unique form of solvent extraction. In an aqueous two-phase extraction, compounds are still separated based on their solubility, but the two immiscible phases are both water-based, an aqueous two phase system.
Aqueous two-phase extractions can have a number of advantages over traditional solvent extraction. Solvents are often destructive to proteins, making the traditional extraction impossible for purifying proteins. In addition, organic solvents can be flammable, and their use can cause both environmental and health concerns. Aqueous-two phase extractions do not require solvents, and so avoid these concerns.
Read more about this topic: Two-phase Liquid Extraction, Techniques
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—Rudolf Carnap (1891–1970)