Molecularly Imprinting Polymers for Separation and Detection

Dear Colleagues,

Green Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (Green MIPs) represent a technological innovation that combines advanced chemistry with sustainability to support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). MIPs are synthetic materials engineered to recognize and separate specific molecules with high selectivity, acting as “artificial antibodies.” In their “green” version, the aim is to minimize environmental impact during synthesis by using safer solvents, renewable energy, biodegradable monomers, and more efficient processes.

Their relevance to the SDGs is significant. For SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), Green MIPs enable the detection of contaminants, pharmaceuticals, or biomarkers with high sensitivity, improving environmental monitoring and food safety. For SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), they help remove emerging pollutants such as pesticides or microplastics, contributing to cleaner water systems. In relation to SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), Green MIPs promote green chemistry practices that reduce waste and minimize the use of toxic substances. They also advance SDG 13 (Climate Action) by integrating sustainable solutions into key industrial sectors. Green MIPs are a powerful tool that merges scientific innovation with environmental responsibility, accelerating the transition toward safer, cleaner, and more sustainable societies aligned with the 2030 Agenda.

At present, MIPs are excellent candidates for monitoring, pre-concentration methods, sensor modification, and controlled drug release, among others, representing a novel approach to mitigating environmental and health impacts. This Special Issue aims to present a basis to identify current pollution and health impacts that can be addressed by disruptive technological innovations using MIPs. The topics of interest for publication include, but are not limited to, MIPs used as adaptable materials for water matrix monitoring, remediation, water quality improvement, preparation methods, and the recovery of chemical elements of environmental and economic interest, among others.

Dr. Rogelio Flores-Ramírez
Dr. Karla Ximena Vargas-Berrones
Guest Editors

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