After cellulose and hemicellulose, lignin represent the most abundant part of the plant biomass. Due to the large waste stream originating from pulping processes, only Kraft lignin and lignosulfonates are of technical interest. Using electric current as sustainable reagent for degradation avoids transition metal catalysts and makes this approach very attractive. However, the natural complexity and stability of lignin make the depolymerization to useful organic building blocks a highly challenging task. The state of the art in the selective anodic degradation of Kraft lignin and lignosulfonates will be reported. This contribution exclusively deals with the direct electrolysis and no ex-cell approaches. The major focus will be given on the generation and cost efficient isolation of vanillin.

Electrochemical degradation of lignin

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.