Photocatalytic Conversion of Lignin into Chemicals and Fuels. Issue 17 (26th May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xiang, Zhiyu; Han, Wanying; Deng, Jin; Zhu, Wanbin; Zhang, Ying; Wang, Hongliang
• Is Part Of: ChemSusChem. Volume 13:Issue 17(2020)
• Page Start: 4199
• Page End: 4213
• Publication Date: 2020-05-26
• Subjects: aromatics -- biomass conversion -- green chemistry -- lignin -- photocatalysis; Green chemistry -- Periodicals; Sustainable engineering -- Periodicals; Chemistry -- Periodicals; Chemical engineering -- Periodicals; 660
• DOI: 10.1002/cssc.202000601
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1864-5631

Abstract

Abstract: Lignin, an underutilized component of lignocellulosic biomass, is regarded as a rich reservoir for the production of aromatic chemicals and fuels. Despite extensive research in recent years, lignin's potential is far from being fully unlocked. Photocatalysis that uses sustainable solar energy to drive lignin conversion under mild conditions has been identified as a promising strategy and received growing research interest. This review aims to present a critical introduction to the photocatalytic conversion of lignin, including a summary of lignin conversion pathways and mechanisms, as well as the latest cutting‐edge innovations on photocatalyst design and reactor construction. Moreover, the screening of solvents and regulation of other key factors that are involved in photocatalytic lignin conversion are also elucidated and future perspectives and challenges for photocatalytic conversion of lignin into valuable products are discussed. Abstract : The lighter side of lignin : Photocatalytic depolymerization of lignin and its oxidative, reductive and redox‐neutral mechanisms have attracted much attention. This Review concerns the development and application of various homogeneous and heterogeneous photocatalysts for lignin depolymerization. In addition, other factors that affect the reaction, including the reactor, solvent, and atmosphere, are also introduced.