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Ultrafast Lignin Extraction from Unusual Mediterranean Lignocellulosic Residues
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Downstream processing of lignin derived feedstock into end products
Sie Shing Wong1, Riyang Shu, Jiaguang Zhang
1Joint School of National University of Singapore and Tianjin University, International Campus of Tianjin University, Binhai New City, Fuzhou 350207, P. R. China. ning.yan@nus.edu.sg.
Chemical Society Reviews
|July 9, 2020
Summary
This review summarizes lignin valorization, focusing on converting lignin-derived chemicals into valuable products. It analyzes downstream processes for economic feasibility, aiming to integrate lignin into the chemical supply chain.
Area of Science:
- Biomass Valorization
- Green Chemistry
- Sustainable Materials
Background:
- Lignin, a major component of lignocellulosic biomass, remains underutilized despite extensive research in depolymerization and functionalization.
- Current lignin valorization efforts face challenges in commercial product development and integration into existing supply chains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review and viewpoint on the lignin-to-product valorization chain, emphasizing downstream processing.
- To analyze strategies for converting lignin-derived platform chemicals and materials into fuels, chemicals, and polymers.
- To conduct a techno-economic analysis to identify commercially viable and technologically ready lignin valorization processes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing lignin depolymerization and functionalization technologies.
- Analysis of downstream processing strategies for lignin-derived platform chemicals.
- Techno-economic assessment of various downstream processes based on market demand, economic potential, and technological readiness.
Main Results:
- Identification of key platform chemicals and polymeric derivatives from lignin.
- Detailed analysis of conversion pathways into fuels, value-added chemicals, and functional polymers.
- Evaluation of the economic competitiveness and commercial feasibility of different downstream processes.
Conclusions:
- Lignin valorization holds significant potential for sustainable chemical and material production.
- Downstream processing and techno-economic analysis are crucial for identifying commercially viable routes.
- Further technological development is needed for processes with high potential but lower readiness levels.
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