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Tuning the Properties of Lignin-Derived Deep Eutectic Solvents for Biomass Processing
Jiae Ryu1, Keunhong Jeong2, Chaehwi Yoon1
1Department of Chemical Engineering, State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, 1 Forestry Dr, Syracuse, NY, 13210, US.
Chemsuschem
|July 3, 2025
Summary
This study explores lignin-derived deep eutectic solvents (DESs) for biomass processing. Chemical structure modifications in DES hydrogen bond donors (HBDs) enhance processability and fractionation efficiency in biorefineries.
Area of Science:
- Green chemistry and sustainable materials science.
- Biomass processing and biorefinery applications.
- Solvent engineering for biomass fractionation.
Background:
- Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are promising green media for biomass processing.
- Understanding the structure-property relationships of DESs is crucial for optimizing biomass fractionation.
- Lignin-derived DESs offer a sustainable alternative, but their full potential requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of functional groups in hydrogen bond donors (HBDs) on the properties of phenolic DESs.
- To correlate DES properties (viscosity, basicity, thermal stability) with their chemical structures for improved biomass fractionation.
- To assess the recyclability of phenolic DESs for sustainable biorefinery applications.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis and characterization of phenolic DESs with varying functional groups (-OCH3, -CHO) in HBDs.
- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations to analyze DES formation and hydrogen bonding.
- Evaluation of DES properties including viscosity, net basicity, and thermal stability (onset temperature).
- Biomass fractionation experiments to assess DES performance and recyclability.
Main Results:
- DES properties are significantly influenced by the number of functional groups in HBD structures.
- Reduced -OCH3 groups in HBDs lead to lower viscosity and net basicity, enhancing processability and fractionation efficiency.
- Functional groups in HBDs also affect the thermal stability of the DES.
- Phenolic DESs demonstrated good recyclability, maintaining performance after multiple fractionation cycles.
Conclusions:
- The chemical structure of DES constituents directly impacts their properties and performance in biomass fractionation.
- Tailoring HBD structures, specifically by minimizing -OCH3 groups, is key to designing efficient and processable DES for biorefineries.
- Lignin-derived phenolic DESs are recyclable and effective solvents for sustainable biomass processing.
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