Recent developments and applications of cloud point extraction: A critical review

This article covers the applications of cloud point extraction (CPE) methodology for separation and pre-concentration of different substances including metal ions, nano-particles and organic molecules. The CPE as any extraction procedure separates the analyte from whole sample into small volume to increase the sensitivity of analysis and to eliminate effect of interference from sample background. The major features of CPE technique over the other separation methods are effectiveness, rapidness, simplicity and safety. It minimizes or ignores the utilization of toxic organic solvents and therefore the procedure is termed as "eco-friendly tool". In the present review, the application of CPE in the determination of wide range of analytes was discussed with special concern to recent developed procedures. The main advantages and limitations of the technique were also provided.