Chapter 3: How the polarity of carbohydrates can be used in chemistry

Carbohydrates are the polar stars of sustainable chemistry. Their polarity induces physico-chemical properties which can be used in different ways, either by bringing solubility assistance to low water-soluble compounds or providing amphiphilic character to hydrophobic molecules. This chapter covers some aspects of the use of carbohydrates in sustainable chemistry, including notably Lubineau's glyco-organic compounds used in hydrophobic-effect driven reactions in water, increased hydrophobic effects due to the presence of carbohydrate solutes in water and various applications in the surfactant and monomer fields.