Lignin-first has emerged as an umbrella of novel fractionation methodologies with active stabilisation approaches that solubilise lignin from native lignocellulosic biomass while avoiding condensation reactions that lead to more recalcitrant lignin polymers. Reductive catalytic fractionation (RCF) is by far the most researched direction and targets cleavage of beta ether bonds in lignin. Even though these bonds can constitiute 70% of the interlinkages in lignin, the resulting "theoretical maximum yield" is below 50%. Thus, less than half of the lignin can be converted to compounds that can be further upgraded; only 10-15% of the biomass is valorized as lignin only makes up 20-30% of the wood.<br/><br/>In this talk, focus will be directed to the rest of the lignin and the other fractions. Firstly, the dimers and oligomers, the side-product of an RCF, where we have been able to oxidatively cleave beta-beta and beta-1 bonds to yield dimethoxybenzoquinone. The oxidant can then be regenerated using electrochemistry. Secondly, the cellulose fraction that has been upgraded to dissolving grade pulp.

Lignin-first: Beyond monophenolic compounds

ACS Spring 2022

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