Lignin Condensation for production of bisphenols and biofuels

Date:May 29, 2024

Country: China

Application

• Production of bio-based chemicals and materials, such as bisphenols, for sustainable alternatives to fossil-based products.
• Enhancement of green biorefineries, maximizing the value of lignocellulose for eco-friendly biofuels and bioproducts.

Description

Scientists from the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP), Chinese Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel strategy to utilize lignin condensation for biomass conversion. By restructuring lignin's condensation pathway through arylation, they can produce valuable compounds like bisphenols, which have applications in plastics and adhesives. This approach maximizes the potential of lignocellulose, offering a sustainable pathway for biofuels and green materials. Their work advances the biorefinery industry by turning lignin from waste into a valuable resource.

 

 

Pathway Description:

In the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) project, scientists employed arylation via Friedel-Crafts Alkylation to restructure lignin’s condensation pathway by introducing aryl groups with lignin-derived phenols. This process directed specific bond formations, enhancing lignin’s reactivity and resulting in a high yield of condensed lignin. The condensed lignin was then processed to produce benign bisphenols, valuable compounds for plastics and adhesives. This innovative method transforms lignin into sustainable materials, advancing the efficient utilization of lignocellulose in green biorefineries.