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The preparation of lignin‐based carbon fibers by dry spinning from aqueous solution followed by stabilization and continuous carbonization to endless yarns is reported. The influence of carbonization temperature and draw ratio on the morphology and mechanical properties of the final carbon fibers is investigated by single‐fiber testing, wide‐angle X‐ray scattering, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. A draw ratio of 5% (1.05) with a carbonization temperature of 1400 °C leads to the best mechanical properties. The resulting multifilament carbon fibers have an average diameter between 10–12 µm, an average tensile strength of 1.30 ± 0.32 GPa, a Young's modulus of 101 ± 18 GPa, and an elongation at break of 1.31 ± 0.23%. The maximum Weibull strength (휎0) is 1.04 GPa with a Weibull modulus (m) of 5.1. The use of a water‐soluble system is economically advantageous; also, unlike melt‐spun lignin fibers, the dry‐spun precursor fibers can be thermally converted without any additional crosslinking step. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widely used technology for the selective flotation of copper and molybdenite using sodium hydrosulfide (NaSH) to depress copper sulfides creates environmental issues related to the potential emissions of toxic hydrosulfide gas (H2S) and bad odors. Previous studies showed that molybdenite flotation can be depressed by the action of lignosulfonates, but no significant progress has been made in studying the effect that these reagents have on the foaming/frothing phenomena in flotation. The objective of this work was to investigate the foaming properties of three samples of lignosulfonates through measurements of surface tension, foamability, bubble size distributions, and water recovery. A sugared sodium lignosulfonate (NaLS), a calcium lignosulfonate (CaLS), and a sample prepared by sulphomethylation of kraft lignin (KLS) were tested. It was found that all lignosulfonates displayed surface activity that decreased with pH and was related to the degree of anionicity and molecular weight. The NaLS lignosulfonate showed the highest dynamic foamability index (DFI) value, compared to that of the CaLS and KLS samples. The lignosulfonates tested in this study strongly affected bubble size. Water recovery tests performed using flotation experiments in a two-phase system showed that the KLS and NaLS samples had the strongest effect, which correlated with the surface tension, foamability, and bubble size results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the key raw materials that replace petroleum materials in today's world, biomass resources could be regarded as a promising resource. Currently, lignin and its derivatives are the only lignocellulosic biomass found to possess aromatic rings. Extending the application area of lignin requires overcoming the limitations of its low hydrophilicity. Sulfonation process becomes the most effective method for preparing lignosulfonates. An analysis of the mechanisms by which different lignosulfonates are prepared. It compared the effects of various modification methods on charge density and sulfonate group content in lignosulfonates. It also examined how different separation techniques affect the properties of lignosulfonates. As a result of being more water‐soluble, there is also a review of cutting‐edge research in the fields of energy, medicine, and agriculture. Also, the possible uses of lignosulfonate are talked about, and ideas are given for how this compound could be improved in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The existing techniques for lignosulfonate (LS) in humate fertilizers lack selectivity to humic substances (HS) as the main component; they involve labor- and time-consuming sample preparation to separate the components at the level of detectable LS concentrations. The procedure based on attenuated total reflectance (ATR) FTIR spectroscopy with simple sample preparation for directly quantifying lignosulfonates in aqueous solutions and lignosulfonates and HS in aqueous solutions of preparations based on HS of coal origin (Sigma Aldrich, Powhumus, and Life Force) was developed. Lignosulfonate quantification is possible by exploiting the bands at 1266, 1192, 1093, and 1042 cm−1 with limits of detection of 0.4–2 g/L. Quantifying LS in a mixture with humates includes centrifugation of prepared solutions to separate interfering silicate impurities. LS quantification in the range of 10–100 g/L against HS (up to a 2-fold excess) with an error of up to 5% is possible based on the spectral absorptions at 1093 and 1042 cm−1. Simultaneous quantification of humate in the mixture with an error of up to 10% is possible by exploiting the bands at 1570 and 1383 cm−1 (carboxylates). The study shows the possibility of determining lignosulfonate against an HS background several times higher than lignosulfonate. The developed technique is applicable for analyzing fertilizers of simple composition and quality control of pure humates used for plant growth. Obtaining the most accurate results needs calibration solutions from the same brands that make up the test mixture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi-phase nitrides bonded silicon carbide lintel blocks were prepared using industrial SiC (SiC=98 mass %, 3-0.5, =0.5 and =0.044 mm), Si powder (Si =98 mass %, =0.044 mm), and SiO2 micropowder (SiO2=96 mass%, d 50=0.15 µm) as raw materials, and calcium lignosulfonate as the additive, batching, mixing, and molding on a vibration pressure molding machine, drying and then firing at 1 420? for 10 h in high-purity N2. The apparent porosity, the bulk density, the cold modulus of rupture, the hot modulus of rupture, and the linear expansion coefficient of the samples were tested. The phase composition and the microstructure of the samples at different nitriding depths (50, 100, and 150 mm) were analyzed by XRD and SEM. The field application effects of the blocks were studied. The results show that: (1) the multi-phase nitrides bonded silicon carbide refractories can dynamically adjust their own phase composition and minimize structural and thermal stresses, improving the service life of key parts of dry quenching furnaces; (2) calcium lignosulfonate can improve the nitriding micro-environment of multi-phase nitrides bonded silicon carbide lintel blocks, successfully increasing the effective nitriding thickness of the blocks to 300 mm; (3) Sinosteel LIRR provides a unique concept in the design of materials and block types as well as the stable and scientific overall structure, promoting the industrialization process of dry quenching furnaces with long service life in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin nanoparticles have emerged during the past decade as well-defined and renewable nanomaterials for fundamental and applied research. However, the presently known methods for the preparation of lignin nanoparticles rely on the use of organic solvents and energy intensive water evaporation processes. Here we present organic solvent-free production of spherical lignin nanoparticles by neutralization of alkaline solution of poorly water-soluble lignins in the presence of sodium lignosulfonate. We show that by combining these two predominant technical lignins it is possible to achieve colloidally stable lignin nanoparticle dispersions at concentrations exceeding 30 wt%. We further demonstrate versatility of the process by using ethanol organosolv lignin, soda lignin, and lignosulfonates from different sources. The lignin nanoparticle dispersions exhibit shear-thinning behaviour and undergo gelation within well-defined pH and concentration regions. Such flowable lignin dispersions mark a breaktrough towards scalable processing of lignin towards sustainable bio-based chemicals and materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel strategy for improving wet resistance and bonding properties of starch-based adhesives using enzymatically polymerized lignosulfonates and carboxylic acids as additives was developed. Therefore, lignosulfonates were polymerized by laccase to a molecular weight of 750 kDa. Incorporation of low concentrations (up to 1% of the starch weight) of 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) led to further improvement on the properties of the adhesives, while addition of greater amounts of BTCA led to a decrease in the properties measured due to large viscosity increases. Great improvements in wet-resistance from 22 to 60 min and bonding times (from 30 to 20 s) were observed for an adhesive containing 8% enzymatically polymerized lignin and 1% BTCA. On the other hand, the addition of citric acid (CA) deteriorated the properties of the adhesives, especially when lignosulfonate was present. In conclusion, this study shows that the addition of the appropriate amount of enzymatically polymerized lignosulfonates together with carboxylic acids (namely BTCA) to starch-based adhesives is a robust strategy for improving their wet resistance and bonding times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin sulfonate (LS), a waste material from the paper pulping, was modified with benzoic anhydride to obtain benzoylated lignin sulfonates of adjustable hydrophilicity (BLS). When BLS was combined with difenoconazole (Di), a broad-spectrum fungicide, lignin-based, non-crosslinked nanoparticles were obtained either by solvent exchange or solvent evaporation. When a mass ratio of 1:5 LS: benzoic anhydride was used, the Di release from Di@BLS 5 after 1248 h was ca. 74 %, while a commercial difenoconazole microemulsion (Di ME) reached 100 % already after 96 h, proving the sustained release from the lignin nanocarriers. The formulation of Di in lignin-based nanocarriers also improved the UV stability and the foliar retention of Di compared to the commercial formulation of the fungicide. Bioactivity assay showed that Di@BLS 5 exhibited high activities and duration against strawberry anthracnose (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides). Overall, the construction of fungicide delivery nano-platform using BLS via a simple non-crosslinked approach is a novel and promising way to develop new formulations for nanopesticide and the development of sustainable agriculture. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Specific features of lignosulfonate systems FCLC and FCLC-2M, as well as of the raw materials for the preparation of these modified forms, the lignosulfonates derived from wood pulping by the sulfite (LST) and neutral-sulfite (N-LST) methods, were studied. Based on the calculated data from the Gibbs equation and the Langmuir equation, the limiting monomolecular adsorption was determined, and broad variability of its numerical values was revealed; the calculated adsorption characteristics were correlated with the previously examined physicochemical properties of the systems studied. The physical meaning of the coefficient K in the Langmuir equation was investigated, and its correlation with the phenomenon of affinity of lignosulfonate systems to the adsorbent (rock) was established. The numerical values of the Gibbs energy were correlated with the physical properties of the lignosulfonate systems, which confirmed the need for additional modification of the inactive neutral lignosulfonate matrix by the phosphonate groups of 1-hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid (HEDP) into an effective reagent FCLC-2M. The applicability of the Szyszkowski equation to the problem of evaluating the effect of the concentration of the lignosulfonate reagents on the magnitude of reduction of the surface tension of aqueous solutions was demonstrated, reasonable assumptions about the factors responsible for negative adsorption observed in the case of the FCLC-2M system were made, and the need for introducing the concept of the working zone of concentrations, as well as that of "effective concentration," which has not been previously applied to lignosulfonates and their modified forms, was substantiated. Based on the change in the surface tension of aqueous solutions, through analysis of the mathematical form of the Szyszkowski equation, the physical meaning of the coefficients a and b was identified and correlated with the numerical values of the limiting adsorption (coefficient a), the adsorption layer capacity А∞, and the ability to restore equilibrium (coefficient b) for all the systems studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aims to evaluate the structural characteristics and study the oxidative depolymerization of lignins obtained from hardwood and softwood sulfite liquors. Lignins were obtained after ultrafiltration and freeze-drying of the sulfite liquors and characterized based on inorganic content, nitrobenzene oxidation, 13C NMR, and molecular weight determination. The structural characteristics achieved allow evaluating the potential of each lignin through oxidative depolymerization to produce added-value phenolic monomers. Hardwood and softwood lignins were submitted to alkaline oxidation with oxygen and the reaction conditions optimized to obtain a final oxidation mixture with the maximum yield of phenolic monomers. Through oxidation with O 2 , hardwood lignin generates mostly syringaldehyde while lignin from softwood biomass mainly produces vanillin; moreover, a lower reaction time and the interruption of O 2 admission avoid the degradation of the oxidation products in the final mixture for both lignins, more evidenced to hardwood lignin due to its higher reactivity. From the results, it is possible to conclude that a phenolic aldehyde-rich oxidation mixture could be obtained, confirming the viability of lignin as raw material to produce added-value products as vanillin and syringaldehyde. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes a new method for improving the properties, mainly the wet-resistance, of starch-based adhesives using enzymatically polymerized lignosulfonates. A correlation of viscosity with molecular weight was found, allowing simple control of enzymatic polymerization of lignosulfonates. Incorporation of lignosulfonates polymerized from 29 kDa to > 4500 kDa using laccase led to a considerable increase in wet-resistance (from 15 to 20 min for the laminating glue and from 150 to 1200 min for the bag glue) while not affecting (for the laminating glue) or even improving the bonding time (from 80 to 60 s for the bag glue). Finally, the effect of active laccase in the final adhesive was investigated by enzymatic inactivation using NaN 3 before formulation of the glue, as well as by extra laccase addition. In conclusion, this study shows that enzymatically polymerized lignosulfonate is a robust strategy for improving wet resistance of starch-based adhesives. • Viscosity can be used to determine degree of polymerization of lignosulfonates. • Addition of polymerized lignin improves the wet resistance of starch-based glues. • Polymerization degree of the lignosulfonates affects glue properties. • Addition of different quantities of lignin changes the properties of the adhesives. • Addition of extra laccase can improve the properties of the adhesives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The selective separation of molybdenite from copper sulfide concentrate in flotation process is realized using sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) to depress the chalcopyrite and permit only the flotation of the molybdenite. However, this reagent is a highly toxic and flammable gas. The objective of this research was to study the feasible application of commercial lignosulfonates (LSs) in the separation by froth flotation process of molybdenite and chalcopyrite in seawater to present a novel application for LSs, as well as an alternative reagent to sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS). To achieve this, microflotation, absorbance tests and zeta potential measures were performed at pH 8 in seawater and 0.01 M NaCl. The results obtained in this study showed that it is possible to achieve selective separation of copper and molybdenum in both aqueous media due to high depressant effect of molybdenite and low depression of chalcopyrite in microflotation tests at 10 ppm of LSs, when the collector, PAX, is added prior to the addition of LSs. Absorbance study and zeta potential measurements showed that LSs adhere more to the molybdenite surface in seawater than in freshwater. This is related to the high ionic charge of the media that influences a greater interaction of LSs with the mineral surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin, the most abundant natural and sustainable phenolic compound in biomass, has exhibited medicinal values due to its biological activities decided by physicochemical properties. Recently, the lignin and its derivatives (such as lignosulfonates and lignosulfonate) have been proven efficient in regulating cellular process and the extracellular microenvironment, which has been regarded as the key factor in disease progression. In orthopaedic diseases, especially the degenerative diseases represented by osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, excessive activated inflammation has been proven as a key stage in the pathological process. Due to the excellent biocompatibility, antibacterial and antioxidative activities of lignin and its derivatives, they have been applied to stimulate cells and restore the uncoupling bone remodeling in the degenerative orthopaedic diseases. However, there is a lack of a systemic review to state the current research actuality of lignin and lignin-derived compounds in treating degenerative orthopaedic diseases. Herein, we summarized the current application of lignin and lignin-derived compounds in orthopaedic diseases and proposed their possible therapeutic mechanism in treating degenerative orthopaedic diseases. It is hoped this work could guide the future preparation of lignin/lignin-derived drugs and implants as available therapeutic strategies for clinically degenerative orthopaedic diseases. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objectives were to compare the antifungal activity of 5 lignosulfonates, and 2 chitosans against fungi isolated from spoiled hay, and assess the effects of an optimized lignosulfonate, chitosan, and propionic acid (PRP) on high-moisture alfalfa hay. In experiment 1, we determined the minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration of 4 sodium lignosulfonates, 1 magnesium lignosulfonate, 2 chitosans, and PRP (positive control) against Aspergillus amoenus , Mucor circinelloides , Penicillium solitum , and Debaromyces hansenii at pH 4 and 6. Among sodium lignosulfonates, the one from Sappi Ltd. (NaSP) was the most antifungal at pH 4. However, chitosans had the strongest fungicidal activity with the exception of M. circinelloides at both pH 4 and 6. PRP had more antifungal effects than NaSP and was only better than chitosans for M. circinelloides. In experiment 2, we evaluated the effects of 3 additives (ADV): optimized NaSP (NaSP-O, UMaine), naïve chitosan (ChNv, Sigma–Aldrich), and PRP on high-moisture alfalfa hay. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design replicated 5 times. Treatment design was the factorial combination of 3 ADV× 5 doses (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2% w/w fresh basis). Additives were added to 35 g of sterile alfalfa hay (71.5 ± 0.23% DM), inoculated with a mixture of previously isolated spoilage fungi (5.8 log cfu/fresh g), and aerobically incubated in vitro for 23 d (25°C). After incubation, DM losses were reduced by doses as low as 0.25% for both NaSP-O and PRP (⁠ x ¯ = 1.61) vs. untreated hay (24.0%), partially due to the decrease of mold and yeast counts as their doses increased. Also, hay NH3-N was lower in NaSP-O and PRP, with doses as low as 0.25%, relative to untreated hay (⁠ x ¯ = 1.13 vs. 7.80% of N, respectively). Both NaSP-O and PRP increased digestible DM recovery (⁠ x ¯ = 69.7) and total volatile fatty acids (⁠ x ¯ = 94.3), with doses as low as 0.25%, compared with untreated hay (52.7% and 83.8 mM, respectively). However, ChNv did not decrease mold nor yeast counts (⁠ x ¯ = 6.59 and x ¯ = 6.16 log cfu/fresh g, respectively) and did not prevent DM losses relative to untreated hay. Overall, when using an alfalfa hay substrate in vitro, NaSP-O was able to prevent fungal spoilage to a similar extent to PRP. Thus, further studies are warranted to develop NaSP-O as a hay preservative under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing concerns on environmental pollution and sustainability have raised the interest on the development of functional biobased materials for different applications, including food packaging, as an alternative to the fossil resources-based counterparts, currently available in the market. In this work, functional wood inspired biopolymeric nanocomposite films were prepared by solvent casting of suspensions containing commercial beechwood xylans, cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and lignosulfonates (magnesium or sodium), in a proportion of 2:5:3 wt%, respectively. All films presented good homogeneity, translucency, and thermal stability up to 153 °C. The incorporation of CNF into the xylan/lignosulfonates matrix provided good mechanical properties to the films (Young's modulus between 1.08 and 3.79 GPa and tensile strength between 12.75 and 14.02 MPa). The presence of lignosulfonates imparted the films with antioxidant capacity (DPPH radical scavenging activity from 71.6 to 82.4 %) and UV barrier properties (transmittance ≤19.1 % (200–400 nm)). Moreover, the films obtained are able to successfully delay the browning of packaged fruit stored over 7 days at 4 °C. Overall, the obtained results show the potential of using low-cost and eco-friendly resources for the development of sustainable active food packaging materials. [Display omitted] • Wood inspired nanocomposite films based on xylan, nanocellulose and lignosulfonates • Homogeneous and translucent films with good mechanical and thermal performance • Lignosulfonates endow good UV-barrier and antioxidant properties to the films • The bioinspired films show potential as eco-friendly materials for active packaging [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent Sulfite Liquor (SSL), a byproduct of sulfite pulp production, contains lignosulfonates (LS) dissolved in a liquid phase rich in sugars, and phenolic substances. This study investigates the effects of UV-irradiation on SSL as a microbial substrate. UV-irradiation of SSL resulted in the polymerization of LS. The molecular weight of LS increased from 1949 Da to 5637 Da (at 3 days of irradiation). FTIR spectroscopy revealed structural changes, including an increase in phenolic OH groups and the formation of β -O-4 ether linkages. Batch fermentations with Actinobacillus succinogenes demonstrated that UV-irradiated SSL led to higher succinic acid production and reduced by-product formation. By product formation was reduced from 0.90 g byproduct per g succinic acid to only 0.62 g in irradiated media. Although the initial lag phase was longer for irradiated SSL, acid production eventually exceeded that of non-irradiated SSL and standard medium. Ultimately, a concentration of 14.40 g L-1 with a yield of 0.56 g of succinic acid per gram of consumed sugar was attained. This represented an increase of 3.01 g L-1 compared to standard media. In conclusion, UV-irradiation upgraded SSL by a higher specificity of succinic acid and allowing better utilization of LS in various applications through polymerization, aligning with sustainable production goals. [Display omitted] • UV-irradiation enhances spent sulfite liquor value. • Irradiated lignosulfonates undergo polymerization and structural changes. • UV-treated sulfite liquor has higher succinic acid yield and reduced by-products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The lignosulfonates are water‐soluble anionic polymers, which are considered as byproducts from the production of wood pulp using sulfite pulping. Calcium lignosulfonate is chosen as a filler according to previous research due to its effect on the properties of the blends. It is added in the concentration range from 10 to 60 phr to the blends with NBR, SBR, and EPDM. It is found out that the increasing concentration of filler has a favorable effect on the values of physical—mechanical properties of vulcanizates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin, an abundant natural polymer but presently under-utilized, has received much attention for its green/sustainable advantages. Herein, we report a facile method to fabricate lignosulfonate (LS) ionic hydrogels by simple crosslinking with poly (ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether (PEGDGE). The as-obtained LS-PEGDGE hydrogels were comprehensively characterized by mechanical measurements, FT-IR, and SEM. The rich sulfonic and phenolic hydroxyl groups in LS hydrogels play key roles in imparting multifunctional smart properties, such as adhesiveness, conducting, sensing and dye adsorption, as well as superconductive behavior when increasing the moisture content. The hydrogels have a high adsorption capacity for cationic dyes, using methylene blue as a model, reaching 211 mg·g−1. As a moist-induced power generator, the maximum output voltage is 181 mV. The LS-PEGDGE hydrogel-based flexible strain sensors exhibit high sensitivity when detecting human movements. As the hydrogel electrolyte, the assembled supercapacitor shows high specific capacitance of 236.9 F·g−1, with the maximum energy density of 20.61 Wh·kg−1, power density of 2306.4 W·kg−1, and capacitance retention of 92.9% after 10,000 consecutive charge-discharge cycles. Therefore, this multifunctional LS hydrogels may have promising applications in various fields, providing a new platform for the value-added utilization of lignin from industrial waste. • A facile method to prepare multi-functional lignosulfonate (LS) hydrogel was reported. • LS hydrogel is a high-sensitivity sensor to monitor human motions. • LS hydrogel performs as a moist driven electro-generator. • LS hydrogel acts as an effective dye adsorbent. • LS hydrogel functions as super-capacitive electrolyte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfomethylation of radiata pine kraft lignin was performed using formaldehyde and sodium sulfite under alkaline conditions to determine its potential as a mineral depressant for the separation of molybdenite and chalcopyrite by froth flotation. Optimal conditions for the sulfomethylation reaction were 20% (w/w) Na2SO3 at 130 °C for 4.2 h, which resulted in lignin with a sulfonate content of 2.2 mmol/g. Microflotation assays showed that the optimized sulfomethylated kraft lignin (OSKL) depressed the molybdenite in flotation by 93% using 200 mg/L OSKL, while only 5% chalcopyrite depression was achieved. The performance of OSKL was compared with those of commercial lignosulfonates, and the OSKL displayed a better ability to separate molybdenite and chalcopyrite, even at lower concentration doses. FTIR and 1H-NMR analyses showed that sulfonic groups were incorporated into the C5 position of the aromatic ring and into the aliphatic chain of the OSKL. The hydroxymethyl content of the OSKL was increased, and most ß-O-4', ß-1' and ß-5' bonds were broken, with the exception of the ß-ß' bond. Sulfomethylation gives kraft lignin the chemical characteristics of a wood-based molybdenite depressant, making it an alternative to current reagents used in the chalcopyritemolybdenite flotation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six different sodium lignosulfonates with varying degrees of sulfonation (0.14–1.29 sulfonate groups per phenylpropane unit) and molecular weights (Mw = 6000–330,000 g/mol) were evaluated for their ability to disperse carbon black in aqueous media. Rheological and particle size measurements of carbon black dispersions indicated that lignosulfonates with low degree of sulfonation function as good carbon black dispersants. The dispersion efficiency did not correspond directly to the amount of lignosulfonate adsorbed on the surface of carbon black. The lignosulfonates have an ability to enhance the colloidal stability by electrostatic repulsion, and the likely mechanism of stabilization is a combination of electrostatic repulsion and steric hindrance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignosulfonate (LS) is a by-product obtained during sulfite pulping process and is commonly used as a growth enhancer in plant growth. However, the underlying growth promoting mechanism of LS on shoot growth remains largely unknown. Hence, this study was undertaken to determine the potential application of eco-friendly ion-chelated LS complex [sodium LS (NaLS) and calcium LS (CaLS)] to enhance recalcitrant indica rice MR 219 shoot growth and to elucidate its underlying growth promoting mechanisms. In this study, the shoot apex of MR 219 rice was grown on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with different ion chelated LS complex (NaLS and CaLS) at 100, 200, 300 and 400 mg/L The NaLS was shown to be a better shoot growth enhancer as compared to CaLS, with optimum concentration of 300 mg/L. Subsequent comparative proteomic analysis revealed an increase of photosynthesis-related proteins [photosystem II (PSII) CP43 reaction center protein, photosystem I (PSI) iron-sulfur center, PSII CP47 reaction center protein, PSII protein D1], ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco), carbohydrate metabolism-related proteins (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase 3, fructose-bisphosphate aldolase) and stress regulator proteins (peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase A4, delta-1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase 1) abundance in NaLS-treated rice as compared to the control (MSO). Consistent with proteins detected, a significant increase in biochemical analyses involved in photosynthetic activities, carbohydrate metabolism and protein biosynthesis such as total chlorophyll, rubisco activity, total sugar and total protein contents were observed in NaLS-treated rice. This implies that NaLS plays a role in empowering photosynthesis activities that led to plant growth enhancement. In addition, the increased in abundance of stress regulator proteins were consistent with low levels of peroxidase activity, malondialdehyde content and phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity observed in NaLS-treated rice. These results suggest that NaLS plays a role in modulating cellular homeostasis to provide a conducive cellular environment for plant growth. Taken together, NaLS improved shoot growth of recalcitrant MR 219 rice by upregulation of photosynthetic activities and reduction of ROS accumulation leading to better plant growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nitrogen-doped porous carbon was prepared by direct carbonization of pyrrole functional crosslinked lignosulfonates precursors via Friedel-Crafts alkylation reaction, and studied for the removal of Pb(II) from water. The absorbent showed higher adsorption capacity which reached 102.77 mg/g when the initial Pb(II) concentration was 200 mg/L and the dosage was 1 mg/mL. Chemical interactions drive the adsorption and the calculated Qmax was 157.9 mg/g according to the Langmuir isotherm model. Such easily separated porous carbon with higher uptake capacity and excellent reusability could be a promising material for mitigation Pb(II) ions pollution just prepared from by-production from the paper industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ordered meso-/macroporous carbons is prepared from pulping industrial lignin. • Assembly of F127 on surface and gravity packing of SiO 2 result in hierarchical carbon. • Enhanced accessibility of macromoleclar lignin to active sites by mesopores. • Highly dispersion of β-Mo 2 C in hierarchical pores for Kraft lignin conversion. In this study, lignosulfonate is converted to hierarchical carbon materials via templating methods, which are used as supports of molybdenum carbide catalysts for Kraft lignin decomposition to aromatic monomers. The results show that hierarchical carbon materials with micropores, mesopores of about 8 nm, and macropores of about 400 nm are obtained from calcium and sodium lignosulfonates using coupled SiO 2 +F127 templates with high ash-free carbon yields of about 50 %. The F127 template tends to assemble on SiO 2 surface along with radial direction to form ordered meso-/macroporous structure of the carbon materials. The β-Mo 2 C supported on the hierarchical carbon material exhibits high catalytic performance with aromatic yield of 0.586 g/g Kraft lignin, and the BTX (benzene, toluene, and xylene) components and BTX-derived alcohols donate 21 % and 32 % of the aromatics, respectively. The mesopores benefit the accessibility of lignin fragments to active sites and interconnection between macropores, and the macropores enhance the impregnation of highly-dispersed nano β-Mo 2 C particles into pore structures. The hierarchical carbon materials from pulping waste lignin shows potential for macromolecular lignin decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the scope of this research work, an efficient membrane‐based process with ceramic ultrafiltration membranes was developed for the recovery of purified lignosulfonates from the spent sulfite liquor of chemical wood pulping. The aim was to separate the lignosulfonates from low‐molecular organic impurities (sugar, carboxylic acids, etc.) and process chemicals, to concentrate them, and to make them available for a targeted further use. One further aspect of the project was the separation of the products (target molecules) of lignosulfonate degradation using ceramic membrane technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mn-based catalysts have attracted widespread attention because of their low price, sufficient source and effective activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to generate free radicals for rapid degradation of organic pollutants. In most pulp and paper industries, lignin sulfonates are usually the waste streams or serve as low-value fuels. However, lignin sulfonates due to its abundant aromatic structure and sulfur functional groups, is regarded as an excellent carbon resource. The stability of supported Mn-based catalyst can be improved by doping nitrogen atoms through the formation of covalent bonds. In this work, Mn, N co-doped carbon composites were prepared by one-step carbonization, and the catalysts were characterized by TEM, XRD, XPS, etc. and the results show that the catalysts with low Mn content mainly contain highly dispersed Mn species such as MnN x species, while high Mn loading catalyst includes some MnO x species. The catalytic performances of the catalysts were evaluated by the degradation of bisphenol A (BPA) by activating PMS, which can reach >95 % in 8 min. Catalyst recyclability experiments demonstrate that carbon-based materials have good stability without the remarkable leaching of metal ions during the degradation reaction. The results of radical capture experiments and radical-assisted ESR show that the active species of the reaction is non-free radical singlet oxygen (1O 2), which can effectively degrade BPA. This study provides a facile and efficient method to prepare high-efficient Mn-N-C catalysts in the catalytic decomposition of BPA. [Display omitted] • Mn, N co-doped carbon materials were prepared by one-step carbonization at 900 °C. • Mn and N atoms form strong covalent bonds at high temperature. • The 0.5 %Mn-2:1–900 catalyst exhibits high degradation efficiency of bisphenol A. • 1O 2 is the main oxidative species for the degradation of bisphenol A. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A green method for films composed of starch and lignosulfonates is reported. • Enzymatic polymerization of lignosulfonates was used to obtain biofilms. • The polymerization was monitored by changes in Mw, viscosity, and fluorescence. • The effect of starch concentration on polymer properties was studied. • Thermal, mechanical, and swelling properties were evaluated. The need to replace polymers from fossil sources with bio-based renewable sources is increasingly imminent. This work reports on the synthesis of biofilms obtained from the polymerization of lignosulfonates using laccase as a biocatalyst and blending with starch. The effect of the reaction conditions on the formation of stable starch-lignosulfonate polymers was evaluated by monitoring changes in viscosity, molecular weight (Mw), and fluorescence measurements. Enzymatic polymerization led to molecular weights of ∼ 400 kDa and viscosities of ∼ 1.00 Pas and decreases in lignosulfonates-OH groups by about 46% after 1 h of reaction carried out at pH 7 and adding starch at the end of the polymerization reaction. Additionally, the effect of the starch concentration on the mechanical, thermal, and water absorption properties was studied. As a result, the addition of up to 7% starch was found to improve the mechanical properties of the lignosulfonate films as indicated by the increase in elongation at break, tensile strength, and Young's modulus, reaching values of 157%, 1.19 MPa, and 0.22 MPa, respectively. This study demonstrated a green alternative for creating 100% biobased films composed of starch and lignosulfonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignosulfonates (LS) from acidic magnesium-based sulfite cooking of Eucalyptus globulus wood were modified via laccase-catalyzed oxidative treatment with the aim to improve their performance as plasticizing additives in concrete formulations. The target parameters were the increment of molecular weight (Mw) and the amount of oxidized groups. The laccase-assisted oxidation under optimized conditions (40°C, pH 4.5, enzyme loads of 83–500 U g−1 for 90 min) allowed Mw increment up to 11-fold and almost doubled the amount of carbonyl and carboxyl groups without using any mediators. Modified LS maintained their solubility in water and possessed a zeta- potential close to that of initial LS. The characterization of modified LS has been carried out by ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared-attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR) and quantitative 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and the sulfonic and phenolic groups were assessed by conductometric titration. It was concluded that LS polymerization occurred mostly via the formation of new aryl ether bonds (two thirds of the modification) and biphenyl bonds (the remaining third). However, part of the newly formed bonds of unknown origin are temperature labile and cleaved during the concentration of LS at pH 4 and 80°C under vacuum, which led to the reduction of the Mw of the modified lignin to almost one third. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• SEC methods are a useful tool for the evaluation of metal. • Fe(III)/LS forms high MW complexes. • Mn and Zn forms complexes with low MW LS. • The amount of metal complexed by LS depends on the MW distribution. • The amount of each metal complexed by LS is related to the HPSEC fingerprints. Lignosulfonates (LSs) are by-products from the paper industry used as biodegradable fertilizers. However, metal–LS ability to provide micronutrients to crops is related to the stability of the complex and the amount of metal complexed. This work evaluated these parameters using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), along with gel filtration chromatography (GFC) and high-performance size exclusion chromatography (HPSEC), for different spruce, eucalyptus, and pine LSs. GFC and HPSEC pointed out that the amount and type of complexed metal in the LS depends on the molecular weight, pH, and sulphite pulping processes. Both techniques indicated that the low molecular weight LS enriched with phenolic groups has the highest Fe(III) complexing capacity. Also, Fe(III)/LS showed the formation of high molecular weight compounds, whereas Zn(II)/LS and Mn(II)/LS complexes did not form aggregates. Metal–LS fractionation provided considerable information to identify LSs with potential fertilizer capacity and to assess the effectiveness of their complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an experimental study on the preparation and characterization of cellulose films and their use for reactive lignosulfonate extraction. The extraction of lignosulfonates leads to emulsion and crud formation when standard equipment is applied. By using cellulose films as a support layer between the aqueous feed phase and the organic extractant phase, emulsion formation is prevented. The results showed that selective separation and a fractionation of the lignosulfonates can be realized with this novel approach simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molybdenum is the most important by-product of Chile's copper mining industry, and during the last decade gained international relevance because of its high price At mining deposits, copper and molybdenum are extracted together and then separated in a process consisting of several stages of flotation using sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS) as key reagent. However, environmental issues related to the potential emissions of toxic hydrosulfide gas (H 2 S), and bad odors make necessary the development of new environmentally friendly processes that incorporate non-toxic reagents. In this work, we hypothesize that a selective separation of chalcopyrite and molybdenite by flotation can be achieved by using lignosulfonates instead of NaHS. This approach was evaluated by testing the effect of lignosulfonates, produced by reacting kraft lignin with sodium sulfite and formaldehyde, and commercially available lignosulfonates, on molybdenite and chalcopyrite flotation. Chemical characterization of lignosulfonates was performed by determination of molecular mass, elemental analysis, fourier transform infrared, and mass spectroscopy with inductively coupled plasma. Also, interactions between molybdenite and lignosulfonates were studied through measurements of electrophoretic mobility. The main conclusions of the work are that molybdenite flotation can be depressed by the action of lignosulfonates, and such depressing effect increases with pH because of the interactions between lignosulfonates with the metallic calcium sites existing on the surface of the mineral particles. The experimental results also indicate that lignosulfonates can depress chalcopyrite flotation when sodium isopropyl xanthate is used as a collector, but this effect can be completely mitigated by using potassium amyl xanthate as a collector, thus, making it possible the potential separation of both minerals. Image 1 • Lignosulfonates from kraft lignin depress molybdenite flotation at alkaline conditions when pH is adjusted with lime. • Lignosulfonates depress chalcopyrite flotation when pH is adjusted with lime using sodium isopropyl xanthate as collector. • Lignosulfonates do not depress chalcopyrite when pH is adjusted with lime using potassium amyl xanthate as collector. • The degree of anionicity is a key variable to explain the interactions between lignosulfonates and molybdenite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypercrosslinked functionalized lignosulfonates (CLS) were prepared by Friedel–Crafts alkylation reaction. The structure of CLS without introducing any functional groups and the according adsorption behaviors of Pb(II) were characterized and studied, respectively. Due to increase of specific surface area and abundance exposure of binding sites, the maximum adsorption capacity of CLS was found to be as high as 74.45 mg/g, which was about seven times that of raw lignin. The results provide a new feasible synthesis method for preparing lignin-based materials with porous structures and promising application for the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Lignosulfonate, a waste by-product from the paper industry, was simply assembled with ZrCl 4 to construct sustainable catalysts (Zr LS) for highly efficient hydrogen transfer of biomass-derived oxygenates under mild conditions. Highlights • Renewable, cost-effective and robust zirconium–lignosulfonate hybrid is prepared. • Zr LS catalyzes MPV reduction with 90–100% yields at as low as 80 °C. • Acid-base sites of Zr LS exhibit synergism. • Kinetics and reaction mechanism were investigated. • Both performances and structures of Zr LS are stable during reuse. Abstract Both value-added utilization of low-rank renewable feedstocks to prepare catalytic materials and selective transformation of bioderived aldehydes are very attractive topics. Herein, lignosulfonate, a waste by-product from the paper industry, was simply assembled with ZrCl 4 under non-toxic hydrothermal conditions for scalable preparation of Zr-containing polyphenolic biopolymer catalysts (Zr LS). Systematic characterizations indicated that the strong coordination between Zr4+ and phenolic hydroxyl groups in lignosulfonate led to the formation of strong Lewis acid-base couple sites (Zr4+−O2−) and porous inorganic-organic framework structure (mesopores centered at 6.1 nm), while the inherent sulfonic groups in lignosulphonate could serve as Brønsted acidic sites. The cooperative role of these versatile acid−base sites in Zr LS afforded excellent catalytic performance for Meerwein-Ponndorf-Verley (MPV) reaction of a broad range of bioderived platform chemicals under mild conditions (80 °C), especially of furfural (FF) to furfuryl alcohol (FA), in quantitative yields (96%) with high FA formation rate of 9600 μmol g−1 h−1 and TOF of 4.37 h−1. Kinetic studies revealed that the activation energy of the MPV reduction of FF was as low as 52.25 kJ/mol, accounting for the high reaction rate. Isotopic labelling experiments demonstrated direct hydrogen transfer from the α-C of 2-PrOH to the α-C of FF on acid-base sites was the rate-determining step. Moreover, Zr LS showed good recyclability for at least seven reaction cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to overcome the dilemma between self-healing capacity and the mechanical strength for polyurethane materials is an intriguing but challenging topic. Taking advantage of the nano-scaled dispersion of the lignosulfonates in tailored waterborne polyurethane (WPU) emulsion, herein an aqueous dispersion strategy was proposed. Different from the previously reported methods, it is simple, efficient and environmentally friendly. The prepared self-healing polyurethane exhibited an ultra- high tensile strength of 51.4 MPa (higher than previously reported results) combined with a elongation at break of 670% when merely 6 wt% of lignosulfonate was introduced into the WPU system. Upon undergoing three cycles of thermal processing, a tensile strength higher than 30 MPa was still remained. Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) combined with Variable-Temperature Infrared Spectroscopy (V-FTIR) confirmed the existence of the nano-scaled lignosulfonate aggregates within the WPU matrix and the reinforcing mechanism was discussed from a viewpoint of the intermolecular interactions. V-FTIR further revealed the origin of the self-healing from the detected dissociation of the oxime-carbamate bonds with the increased temperature. This nano-scaled aqueous dispersion strategy demonstrates a high potential in designing polyurethane materials with balanced self-healing performance and mechanical properties. [Display omitted] • Simple and green aqueous polyurethane dispersion strategy, not solvent or melt. • Nano-scaled lignosulfonates aggregated in polyurethane matrix for great reinforcement. • Ultra high mechanical strength (51.4 MPa) with uncompromised self-healing performance. • High potential in balancing self-healing performance and mechanical properties for PU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonation degree is an important structural parameter of lignosulfonates which affect their water solubility, surface activity, and dispersing performance. Presently, the methods for determining sulfonation degree include elemental analysis and potentiometric titration; they have some shortcomings such as complex purification process, high equipment requirements, and time-consuming. Hence, a simple and rapid method to determine the sulfonation degree of lignosulfonates was proposed based on the electrostatic interaction between cationic surfactant (hexadecyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB)) and anionic lignosulfonates. CTAB was added and co-precipitated with lignosulfonates and then the ultraviolet absorbance of the supernatant was determined. The sulfonation degree of lignosulfonates was calculated according to the titration curve of the supernatant absorbance to the amount of CTAB. This method is applicable to lignosulfonates recovered from acid pulping as well as sulfonation products of alkali lignin. Because of the easy operation process and no purification process for lignosulfonates, this method was simple and rapid when compared to existing methods for sulfonation degree determination of lignosulfonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of presented research concerned synthesis of a novel lignosulfonate-based sorbent and its application in batch adsorption tests related to removal of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (ibuprofen). Obtained hybrid material was thoroughly characterized with respect to morphology, porosity (BET method and BJH algorithm), electrokinetic stability, and characteristic functional groups. As a result of the proposed synthesis route, an active MgO–SiO2/lignosulfonate hybrid was obtained as confirmed by significant amount of functional groups present in its structure and relative good parameters of the porous structure (ABET = 71 m2/g, Vp = 0.2 mL/g and Sp = 11.8 nm). Next stage concerned typical batch adsorption tests with respect to active pharmaceutical ingredient (API)—ibuprofen. It was proved that efficiency of removal of ibuprofen was mostly determined by its structure as well as variable process parameters. Affinity of sorption material towards model organic impurity was established based on equilibrium and kinetics study of adsorption process performed. A key element of the investigations was an interaction and mechanism study resulted from interpretation how the parameters of the adsorption affect the nature of the adsorbent/adsorbate interactions. Experimental data collected, supplemented with regeneration tests, proved significant affinity of ibuprofen to the hybrid sorbent and enabled determination of nature of the adsorbent/adsorbate interactions. Moreover, suggested mechanism of ibuprofen sorption was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Epoxidized and cyclocarbonated lignosulfonates (ELS and CLS) were synthesized. • ELS/DGEBA and CLS/DGEBA blends were cured. • Curing kinetics were studied by dynamic DSC and isoconversional method. • Kamal parameters were calculated by the Sbirrazzuoli and traditional fitting methods. Epoxidized lignosulfonate (ELS) and cyclocarbonated lignosulfonate (CLS) were synthesized using modifying lignosulfonate. Through FTIR normalization procedure and titration method, the yield of epoxidation and carbonation were determined. Subsequently, two kinds of epoxy blends via the addition of ELS and CLS (20 wt%) as reactive fillers to a conventional DGEBA epoxy resin and curing by diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) were prepared. The curing process was investigated by non-isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). For ELS/DGEBA and CLS/DGEBA blends and DGEBA epoxy resin, the curing kinetic parameters of Kamal model were computed via conventional fitting method using experimental reaction rate data. Also, through an approach proposed by Sbirrazzuoli, using activation energy data computed by an advanced integral isoconversional method developed by Vyazovkin, all samples exhibited a similar activation energy dependency on the extent of the reaction which can be attributed to a similar curing reaction mechanism for ELS/ DGEBA blend, CLS/ DGEBA blend and DGEBA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A galvanochemical method for the synthesis of iron lignosulfonate was developed. Metallic iron is gradually dissolved in a solution of lignosulfonates on contact with the material acting as a cathode of the short-circuited galvanic pair. The effect of the cathode material as well as duration and temperature of the process on the anodic dissolution of iron was studied under dynamic and static conditions. Anodic dissolution occurs in a solution of lignosulfonic acids approximately 5 times more rapidly than in a solution of lignosulfonates. Iron lignosulfonate synthesized using the galvanochemical method have high biological activity. Under vegetative conditions, they can be used as an anti-chlorosis preparation to prevent glandular deficiency in plants growing on carbonate soils. Unlike complexonates based on synthetic complexones, iron lignosulfonates are biodegradable and environmentally friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrated lignosulfonates were used to synthesize a water-based magnetic fluid. Lignosulfonates were nitrated by nitric acid under mild conditions and without further purification were used to synthesize a magnetic fluid. Part of the iron(II) were oxidized with an excess of nitric acid, so that the magnetoactive phase under the condensation by action of sodium hydroxide was formed. Optimum conditions for nitration of lignosulfonates and synthesis of a magnetic fluid were experimentally established. The optimum consumption of iron(II) was 1.3–1.5 g per 1 g of sodium lignosulfonate. Unlike the initial lignosulfonates, nitrated lignosulfonates have peptizing properties, due to which the precipitate formed during condensation was dispersed to nanoparticles (15–30 nm). The resulting magnetic fluid had a high magnetic activity and was stable for a long time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the present work, we report an investigation of using an anionic surfactant sulfonated lignin (SL) to promote gas hydrate formation for CO 2 capture from a CO 2 /CH 4 gas mixture. The experiments were performed at 277.15 K in a stirred tank reactor. The initial overpressure (driving force) for hydrate formation was fixed at Δ P = 2.5 MPa. The impacts of the SL presence on hydrate growth behavior and CO 2 separation efficiency were elucidated. The results indicated that hydrate nucleation was prolonged in the presence of SL but this stage was accelerated when adding 1.0 mol% tetrahydrofuran (THF) into the SL solution. Compared to THF/SL and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) solutions, CO 2 recovery obtained in SL solutions was increased to 63.5 ± 2.9% and the separation factor was 4.0 ± 0.8. Gas consumption obtained in SL solutions was higher than that obtained in other systems like liquid water, SDS solution, THF solution, and tetra- n -butyl phosphonium bromide (TBPB) solution. Therefore, sulfonated lignin can be used as a promising surfactant to improve hydrate formation kinetics as well as the efficiency of CO 2 capture from CO 2 /CH 4 gas mixture, but there still exists a space to increase the CO 2 selectivity in the presence of SL. Highlights • A surfactant sulfonated lignin was used to promote hydrate based CO 2 capture from CO 2 /CH 4. • Gas uptake for hydrate formation was increased in sulfonated lignin solutions. • CO 2 separation efficiency was greatly improved in sulfonated lignin solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Lignin can be effectively converted into liquid fuels over HSZ based catalyst. • Promotional effects of catalyst and solvent were observed in the depolymerization. • The HHV of bio-oil from lignin improved to 28–32 MJ/kg after the degradation. Abstract In this study, three types of lignin feedstocks were introduced into the microwave assisted depolymerization process over solid acid catalysts. The effects of lignin structures, solvents and catalysts were investigated to improve bio-oil yields and properties. A common phenomenon was observed that the highest bio-oil yields were all obtained in methanol under optimal conditions with microwave heating. The highest bio-oil yield from alkaline lignin, dealkaline lignin and lignosulfonate was 57.4%, 82.9% and 70.9% respectively, all obtained in methanol. The promotional effect of methanol over HSZ-640 (or HSZ-660) in the depolymerization process was confirmed due to the higher polarity of methanol, and higher acidity of catalysts. The promotional effect on the elemental composition and HHV of bio-oil was observed, finding that HSZ-640 (or HSZ-660) exhibited to be effective to convert lignin to liquid fuels with higher HHV, and the HHV of obtained bio-oil increased to about 28–32 MJ/kg, confirming that hydrogenation/hydrodeoxygenation took place during the depolymerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • The concepts of insensitive mix design were introduced. • Glass powder was capable of behaving like the plasticizer. • The effect of glass powder on compressive strength depends on the W/C ratio. • Glass powder reduced the ASR to 50 percent. • The optimum W/C ratio was between 0.33 and 0.34. Abstract Using glass powder to manufacture eco-friendly self-consolidating concrete (SCC) has been developed and improved in recent years. While researchers have determined the effect of glass powder on rheological properties of the green concretes, the sensitivity of SCC to this powder content yet remains to be investigated. This study introduced the concepts of insensitive design, and subsequently, the ranges of water to powder ratio, sodium lignosulfonate plasticizer (LS), and glass powder were determined and optimized by the artificial neural network and particle swarm optimization, respectively. The results showed the possibility of producing SCC with the least possible sensitivity to water, glass powder, and plasticizer variations. The best water to cement ratio to design an insensitive SCC derived between 0.33 and 0.34, but the reduction in the compressive strength was inevitable for the augmented water-to-cement ratio. The effect of glass powder on alkali-silica reactions (ASR) and compressive strength was also investigated to clear the way for the incorporation of glass powder in SCC. The results indicated that the ASR reduced to 52% by substituting 30% glass powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to develop a new functional product from lignin, sodium lignosulfonate (LS)-based polyurethane (LSPU) hydrogels were prepared from LS and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) derivatives in water. Isocyanate/hydroxyl group ratio (NCO/OH ratio) was varied from 0.05 to 0.8 mol mol−1, and water content (Wc = mass of water/mass of dry sample) of the obtained LSPU hydrogels was varied from 0 to 3.0 g g−1. Phase transition behavior of hydrogels with various Wc's was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry (TG). In DSC heating curve of LSPU hydrogels, glass transition, cold crystallization, melting and liquid crystallization were observed. Cold crystallization, two melting peaks and variation of melting enthalpy indicate that three kinds of water, i.e., non-freezing water, freezing bound water and free water, exist in LSPU hydrogel. Glass transition temperature (Tg) decreased from 230 to 190 K in a Wc range where non-freezing water was formed in the hydrogel. Tg increased when freezing bound water was formed in the system. Tg leveled off in a Wc range where normal ice was formed. The effect of NCO/OH ratio on molecular motion of LSPU hydrogel is examined based on Tg and heat capacity difference at Tg (ΔCp). Water vaporization curve measured by TG also indicates the presence of bound water which evaporates at a temperature higher than ca. 410 K. By atomic force microscopic observation, the size of molecular bundle of LSPU hydrogel is calculated and compared with that of LS-water system. By cross-linking, the height of molecular bundle decreased from ca. 3-1 nm and lignin molecules extend in a flat structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study was done with the aim of lignosulfonate and ethanol production from different spent liquors of bagasse pulping process. For this purpose, alkali lignin from bagasse alkali liquor was separated and was sulfomethylated to produce soda lignosulfonate (SLig). Furthermore, raw bagasse was directly treated with sodium sulfite in acidic and neutral conditions to produce BLig and NLig bagasse lignosulfonate, respectively. In addition, the pentoses and hexoses impurities in lignosulfonates were fermented to ethanol using Candida guilliermondii. Results showed that the molecular weight of NLig lignosulfonate was considerably high comparing to the SLig and BLig lignosulfonates. A high level of thermal resistance was found in case of SLig regarding to the other samples at 500 °C. Fermentation of the spent liquors with Candida guilliermondii led to a maximum ethanol yield of 7.0, 1.0 and 5.1 g L−1 in NLig, SLig and BLig, respectively. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Concurrent production of lignosulfonate and bioethanol from spent liquor was investigated. • Lignosulfonate with high molecular weight was obtained from bagasse and alkali lignin. • High thermal resistance lignosulfonate was obtained from alkali lignin. • A maximum yield of 7.05 gL−1 of bioethanol was obtained from the lignosulfonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new approach to the formation of "fullerene-like" carbon-nitrogen carbogels based on the interpolyelectrolyte complex lignosulfonate-chitosan (IPEC LSNa-CT) was developed. It was established that carbogel maintained the morphology of the precursor complex, i.e. the spherical geometry and the particle size of its main fractions (40–55 nm) were stored in the carbonizate. The influence of pyrolysis (Py) temperature was studied in the range of 500–1000°C on the structure of carbonizate. Carbogels obtained under different processing conditions have a well-developed microporous structure. The specific surface area of carbogels reduced with increasing Py temperature according to their nitrogen content. The maximum specific surface area (438.3 m2 g−1) corresponds to the carbogel obtained at 600°C, while the maximum nitrogen content of this sample is 4.4%. The internal porosity of the material and the volume of supermicropores are reduced with increasing Py temperature due to the accumulation of double and triple carbon bonds in the carbogel. Apparently, the structure-forming N-atoms participate in the formation of condensed nitrogen-containing and cyclic structures as a donor of the electron pair and as such they accelerate the carbonization process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), made from ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and polypropylene (PP) based on reactive blending, has excellent processing performance and characteristics and a wide range of applications. However, there are currently no reports in the literature regarding the usage of TPE in making composite boards. In this paper, EPDM, PP, and ammonium lignosulfonate (AL) were used as the raw materials, polyethylene wax was used as the plasticizer, and a dicumyl peroxide vulcanization system with dynamic vulcanization was used to make a new kind of composite material. This research studied the influences of the PP and AL contents on the crystallization behavior, mechanical properties, and rheological properties of the composites. The results showed that the PP content had a noticeable impact on the performance of the composites. The AL content had a major impact on the modulus of elasticity of the composite board. Accordingly, this kind of composite material can be used as an elastomer material for the core layer of laminated flooring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]