Kraft lignin valorization: Biofuels and thermoset materials in focus
Martin Lawoko, Joseph S. M. Samec
Abstract
Kraft pulping is more than one hundred years old. The kraft lignin recovery has however been implemented commercially in the last ten years. The lignin is a bio-based by-product and is thus considered a sustainable material with a great potential. These aspects have sparked intense research and development efforts to valorize kraft lignin. This Opinion provides a snapshot of the current state of affairs in the field, highlighting recent examples that either manipulate the kraft lignin to thermoset materials or depolymerize the lignin to obtain biofuels.
Topics & Concepts
Thermosetting polymerBiofuelLigninFocus (optics)Pulp and paper industryBusinessKraft paperPolymer scienceChemistryOrganic chemistryWaste managementEngineeringPhysicsOpticsLignin and Wood ChemistryBiofuel production and bioconversionEnzyme-mediated dye degradation