COUNTLESS: Scaling Sustainable Lignin-Based Chemicals

Date:7 Dec 2023

Application

• Development of bio-based chemicals for use in adhesives, insulation, and cosmetics.
• Creation of sustainable alternatives to fossil-based materials, reducing environmental impact in various industries.

Description

The COUNTLESS project aims to scale up the production of lignin-based platform chemicals using a cost-effective and sustainable process. Coordinated by VITO, it brings together 13 partners to demonstrate the first continuous catalytic hydrogenolysis process at an industrial scale. The project focuses on converting lignin, a bio-based resource, into valuable chemicals for various industries, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lowering environmental impact. Industry leaders will test these chemicals for use in products like adhesives, insulation, and cosmetics.

 

 

Pathway Description:

The COUNTLESS project uses continuous catalytic hydrogenolysis to convert lignin into smaller, more reactive molecules. This process breaks down lignin into monomeric and oligomeric platform chemicals. It operates at an industrial scale, aiming to produce bio-based chemicals from lignin. The goal is to replace fossil-based materials in various industries and reduce environmental impact.