Search

Lignin is a potential non-fossil resource of diverse functionalized phenolic units. The most important lignin-derived monomers are 4-alkylphenols, 4-hydroxybenzaldehydes, 4-hydroxybenzoic acids, and 4-hydroxycinnamic acids/esters. Efficient transformation of lignin and/or its monomers into valuable aromatics and their derivatives is crucial, not only for a sustainable lignocellulose biorefinery, but also to reduce our dependence on fossil feedstocks. This review provides a concise account of the recent advances in lignocellulose fractionation/lignin depolymerization processes towards lignin-derived monomers. Subsequently, numerous potential atom-efficient catalytic routes for upgrading lignin monomers into drop-in chemicals and new polymer building blocks are discussed.

Reductive catalytic fractionation (RCF) of lignocellulose is an emerging biorefinery scheme that combines biomass fractionation with lignin depolymerisation. Central to this scheme is the integration of heterogeneous catalysis, which overcomes the tendency of lignin to repolymerise. Ultimately, this leads to a low-Mw lignin oil comprising a handful of lignin-derived monophenolics in close-to-theoretical yield, as well as a carbohydrate pulp. Both product streams are considered to be valuable resources for the bio-based chemical industry. This Opinion article sheds light on recently achieved milestones and consequent research opportunities. More specifically, mechanistic studies have established a general understanding of the elementary RCF steps, which include (i) lignin extraction, (ii) solvolytic and catalytic depolymerisation and (iii) stabilisation. This insight forms the foundation for recently developed flow-through RCF. Compared to traditional batch, flow-through RCF has the advantage of (i) separating the solvolytic steps from the catalytic steps and (ii) being a semi-continuous process; both of which are beneficial for research purposes and for industrial operation. Although RCF has originally been developed for 'virgin' biomass, researchers have just begun to explore alternative feedstocks. Low-value biomass sources such as agricultural residues, waste wood and bark, are cheap and abundant but are also often more complex. On the other side of the feedstock spectrum are high-value bio-engineered crops, specifically tailored for biorefinery purposes. Advantageous for RCF are feedstocks designed to (i) increase the total monomer yield, (ii) extract lignin more easily, and/or (iii) yield unconventional, high-value products (e.g. alkylated catechols derived from C-lignin). Taking a look at the bigger picture, this Opinion article highlights the multidisciplinary nature of RCF. Collaborative efforts involving chemists, reactor engineers, bioengineers and biologists working closer together are, therefore, strongly encouraged. ispartof: Current Opinion In Biotechnology vol:56 pages:193-201 ispartof: location:England status: published