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Updated: Jan 21, 2026

Using the GELFREE 8100 Fractionation System for Molecular Weight-Based Fractionation with Liquid Phase Recovery
Published on: December 3, 2009
Green solvents-based fractionation process for kraft lignin with controlled dispersity and molecular weight
Olumoye Ajao1, Jawad Jeaidi1, Marzouk Benali1
1Natural Resources Canada, CanmetENERGY, P.O. Box 4800, Varennes, Quebec J3X 1S6, Canada.
Abstract:
The aim of this work is to develop a novel green solvent based sustainable process to refine lignin into low molecular weight (LMW) and high molecular weight (HMW) fractions. Lignin dispersity reduction were experimentally determined using four solvent mixtures, and benchmarked against eight pure solvents. Data outputs were used for modelling the integrated fractionation process. Dispersity reduction of up to 73% was achieved for the high value LMW fraction. Also, a 90% reduction of energy requirement was achieved with an optimized process incorporating a mechanical vapor compression system. This study showed that solvent mixtures involving water can significantly reduce the cost, environment, health and safety impacts of lignin fractionation. Techno-economic evaluation confirmed the economic viability of a large-scale process processing 50 tonne/day of lignin.
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