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Preparation of Silica Nanoparticles Through Microwave-assisted Acid-catalysis
Published on: December 16, 2013
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Microwave-assisted efficient depolymerization of alkaline lignin in methanol/formic acid media.
Lupeng Shao1, Qilin Zhang1, Tingting You1
1Beijing Key Laboratory of Lignocellulosic Chemistry, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China.
Bioresource Technology
|May 30, 2018
Summary
Microwave-assisted degradation efficiently depolymerized alkaline lignin using methanol and formic acid (FA). Optimal conditions yielded 72.0 wt% bio-oil, including valuable monomers, showcasing an effective lignin valorization approach.
Area of Science:
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomass Conversion
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Lignin, a complex biopolymer, presents a challenge for efficient valorization.
- Developing effective depolymerization methods is crucial for lignin's sustainable utilization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate microwave-assisted lignin depolymerization in methanol/formic acid media.
- To determine the optimal conditions for maximizing bio-oil yield and monomer production.
Main Methods:
- Microwave irradiation was used to degrade alkaline lignin.
- The effects of formic acid amount, temperature, and time were systematically studied.
- Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) analyzed oligomers.
Main Results:
- The highest bio-oil yield was 72.0 wt% at 160°C with a formic acid-to-lignin ratio of 4 for 30 min.
- Monomer yield reached 6.7 wt%, with 2,3-dihydrobenzofuran and p-coumaric acid as major components.
- Oligomers consisted mainly of dimers and trimers, indicating controlled depolymerization.
Conclusions:
- Microwave-assisted depolymerization in formic acid/methanol is an efficient method for lignin breakdown.
- Formic acid primarily acts as an acid catalyst, cleaving lignin linkages.
- This approach offers a promising route for lignin valorization into valuable chemical products.
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