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Sequential lignin depolymerization by combination of biocatalytic and formic acid/formate treatment steps
Christoph A Gasser1,2, Monika Čvančarová3, Erik M Ammann3
1Institute for Ecopreneurship, School of Life Sciences, University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, Gründenstrasse 40, 4132, Muttenz, Switzerland. christoph.gasser@fhnw.ch.
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology
|December 2, 2016
Summary
This study presents a novel sequential method to break down lignin, a renewable resource, into valuable aromatic compounds. The process efficiently solubilizes lignin, yielding low-molecular-weight products for further applications.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Polymer Chemistry
- Renewable Resources
Background:
- Lignin is a complex polymer and a potential source of aromatic compounds.
- Efficient depolymerization methods are needed to valorize lignin.
- Current methods often lack efficiency or require harsh conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize a sequential lignin treatment method.
- To investigate a combined biocatalytic and chemical depolymerization approach.
- To produce low-molecular-weight aromatic compounds from lignin.
Main Methods:
- Sequential treatment: biocatalytic oxidation followed by formic acid depolymerization.
- Biocatalysis: laccase enzyme with 1-hydroxybenzotriazole mediator, immobilized on nanoparticles.
- Optimization: Response Surface Methodology (RSM).
Main Results:
- Up to 45 wt% lignin solubilization achieved under optimized conditions.
- Products are mainly low-molecular-weight aromatic monomers and oligomers.
- Immobilized laccase allowed for easy catalyst separation and reuse.
Conclusions:
- The developed sequential method effectively depolymerizes lignin.
- The process yields valuable soluble aromatic products.
- This approach offers a sustainable route for lignin valorization into aromatic chemicals.
