Linking Solution Microstructure and Solvation Thermodynamics of Mixed-Solvent Systems: Formal Results, Critical Observations, and Modeling Pitfalls

Round 1

Reviewer 1 Report

The paper reports the state-of-the-art in thermodynamics and molecular theory of the solvation in mixed solvents. The phenomenon was discussed by invoking strict formalisms of the preferential solvation parameters.

I recommend the paper for printing after minor changes.

1. I suggest to add an alphabetical list of symbols and definitions at the end of the paper. That will facilitate reading.

2. Please check the symbols, especially sub- and superscripts. For example, the symbol S_αβ(T,p,x_α) in line 175 is written as S_αβ(T,p,x_β) in line 177.

3. Chemical symbols and formulas should be typed in roman rather than in italic (e.g. lines 383 and 384). Ditto acronyms (e.g. TFE in line 385) and units (cm³/mol in Fig. 1).  

Author Response

Comment 1. "I suggest to add an alphabetical list of symbols and definitions at the end of the paper. That will facilitate reading."

Author replay: The requested nomenclature list has been added at the end of the manuscript

Comment 2. "Please check the symbols, especially sub- and superscripts. For example, the symbol Sαβ(T,p,xα) in line 175 is written as Sαβ(T,p,xβ) in line 177."

Author replay: The requested correction/editions have been incorporated to the revised manuscript.

Comment 3. "Chemical symbols and formulas should be typed in roman rather than in italic (e.g. lines 383 and 384). Ditto acronyms (e.g. TFE in line 385) and units (cm3/mol in Fig. 1)."

Author replay: Done as requested

Reviewer 2 Report

In the reviewed paper, the author presented a critical analysis of published studies on the relationship between solution microstructure and solvation thermodynamics of mixed-solvent systems. I did not find a review article on the same topic in the available literature. Additionally, the author provides many tips that should be taken into account during the thermodynamic modelling of solvation in mixed solvents. The paper may be of interest to many scientists involved in the selection of solvents for practical use. Consider chapter "4. Discussion on Alternative Exploration Routes and Relevant Observations" is the most interesting. In my opinion, the article can be published with minor editorial corrections. The author should first improve the bibliographic description in accordance with the author guide.

Author Response

Comment: "The author should first improve the bibliographic description in accordance with the author guide."

Author replay: This was done according to the Endnote style (chicago-mdpi.ens) as suggested by the Thermo's Instructions for Authors