Oligomers from lignin

Date: 19-Apr-2023

Country: United States

Application

• Production of Value-added Chemicals: Oligomers from lignin depolymerization can be further processed into phenolic monomers, dicarboxylic acids, or other high-value materials for industrial use.
• Sustainable Bioenergy: The process aids in the production of biofuels, hydrogen, and other renewable energy sources by utilizing lignin waste from biomass.

Description

This project focuses on the depolymerization of lignin, a complex biopolymer, to produce valuable oligomeric products. It reviews the formation, identification, and potential valorization routes of these products, such as further depolymerization, material modification, or conversion into value-added chemicals. Challenges in characterizing these oligomers due to lignin's structural complexity are also discussed. The work aims to advance the understanding and utilization of lignin for sustainable chemical and fuel production.

 

Pathway Description:

The project focuses on depolymerizing lignin, a complex biopolymer, into oligomeric products using oxidative, reductive, or thermochemical methods. These oligomers are characterized through advanced analytical techniques like NMR and mass spectrometry. The products are then valorized for applications in biofuels, antioxidants, and materials. The goal is to enhance the use of lignin as a sustainable feedstock for valuable chemicals.