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Study of Lignin Extracted from Rubberwood Using Microwave Assisted Technology for Fuel Additive
Trakarn Yimtrakarn1, Watchareeya Kaveevivitchai2, Wen-Chien Lee3
1Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Engineering, King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Ladkrabang, Bangkok 10520, Thailand.
Polymers
|February 26, 2022
Summary
Microwave-assisted solvent extraction efficiently yields lignin from rubberwood sawdust. Ethanol solvent and optimized microwave conditions maximized lignin extraction, offering potential for biofuel production.
Area of Science:
- Biomass valorization
- Natural polymer chemistry
- Sustainable energy research
Background:
- Lignin, an abundant aromatic polymer in plant biomass, is a key precursor for high-value liquid fuels.
- Efficient extraction methods are crucial for unlocking lignin's potential in biofuel applications.
- Rubberwood sawdust presents a viable, underutilized biomass source.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize microwave-assisted solvent extraction for maximizing lignin yield from rubberwood sawdust.
- To characterize the essential properties of the extracted lignin.
- To compare the efficacy of ethanol versus isopropanol as solvents.
Main Methods:
- Microwave-assisted solvent extraction of lignin from rubberwood sawdust using ethanol or isopropanol.
- Varied microwave power (100 W, 200 W) and extraction times (5-30 min).
- Characterization using Klason lignin analysis, FT-IR, 2D HSQC NMR, UV-vis, and bomb calorimetry.
Main Results:
- Lignin yield increased with microwave power and extraction time.
- Ethanol yielded higher lignin extraction than isopropanol.
- The optimal conditions (ethanol, 30 min, 200 W) yielded 6.26 wt.% lignin.
Conclusions:
- Microwave-assisted solvent extraction is an effective method for lignin recovery from rubberwood.
- Optimized parameters significantly enhance lignin yield, supporting its use in biofuel production.
- Further characterization confirms the quality of extracted lignin for potential applications.
