Flow-through solvolysis enables production of native-like lignin from biomass. Issue 15 (12th July 2021) - Brandner, David G.
Abstract : Flow-through solvolysis offers an opportunity to limit lignin condensation reactions that prevent isolation of native lignin in biomass processing, thus allowing for the study of intrinsic lignin properties and steady-state lignin depolymerization. Abstract : The inherent reactivity of lignin in conventional biomass processing commonly prevents isolation of native lignin and limits monomer yields from catalytic depolymerization strategies that target aryl-ether bonds. Here we show that flow-through solvolysis with methanol at 225 °C produces native-like lignin from poplar, enabling the study of intrinsic lignin properties and evaluation of steady-state lignin depolymerization processes.