A synergistic biorefinery based on catalytic conversion of lignin prior to cellulose starting from lignocellulosic biomass?

Green Chemistry Pub Date: 2014-12-10 DOI: 10.1039/C4GC01911C

Abstract

Current biomass utilization processes do not make use of lignin beyond its heat value. Here we report on a bimetallic Zn/Pd/C catalyst that converts lignin in intact lignocellulosic biomass directly into two methoxyphenol products, leaving behind the carbohydrates as a solid residue. Genetically modified poplar enhanced in syringyl (S) monomer content yields only a single product, dihydroeugenol. Lignin-derived methoxyphenols can be deoxygenated further to propylcyclohexane. The leftover carbohydrate residue is hydrolyzed by cellulases to give glucose in 95% yield, which is comparable to lignin-free cellulose (solka floc). New conversion pathways to useful fuels and chemicals are proposed based on the efficient conversion of lignin into intact hydrocarbons.

Graphical abstract: A synergistic biorefinery based on catalytic conversion of lignin prior to cellulose starting from lignocellulosic biomass
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