Stabilized Lignin Nanoparticles for Versatile Hybrid and Functional Nanomaterials

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Lignin nanoparticles (LNPs) are promising biobased nanomaterials.
• Instability in organic solvents and aqueous alkali limits LNP applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize stable, hydroxymethylated lignin nanoparticles (HLNPs) via hydrothermal curing.
• To enhance the applicability of LNPs in diverse chemical environments and for advanced functionalities.

Main Methods:

• Hydroxymethylation of lignin followed by hydrothermal curing to induce internal cross-linking.
• Characterization of particle stability in aqueous media (pH 3-12) and organic solvents (acetone, ethanol, DMF, THF).
• Demonstration of hybrid nanoparticle synthesis and modification for sensing and pH-responsive behavior.

Main Results:

• Synthesized colloidally stable HLNPs with 97% biobased content and tunable size.
• Achieved structural stability in a wide pH range and common organic solvents.
• Developed hybrid lignin-silver nanoparticles for hydrogen peroxide sensing.
• Demonstrated pH-dependent modification and re-dispersion properties.

Conclusions:

• Hydrothermal curing effectively stabilizes lignin nanoparticles through internal cross-linking.
• Stabilized HLNPs exhibit broad solvent and pH stability, expanding their application scope.
• The developed lignin nanoparticles are suitable for sensing, material modification, and circular biobased applications.