Title:
From Lignin to Polyols: Combined Catalytic and Electrochemical Approach for Advanced Biomass Conversion
Author(s):
Müller, T.E., Sabri, E., Sorrentino, G.P., Tabot, O., Apfel, U., Stoll, R.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
Lignin is the largest renewable aromatic resource, yet its structural complexity limits its integration into chemical value chains. This work presents a combined catalytic and electrochemical strategy for converting technical lignins into functionalized oligomers and polyol precursors for polyurethane applications. Technical Kraft lignin was subjected to catalytic hydrogenolysis followed by controlled oxidation, reducing high-molecular-weight fractions and generating lower-molecular-weight oligomers with modified side-chain functionalities. Subsequent electrochemical upgrading in a two-compartment cell enabled targeted functionality tuning under mild conditions (20–60 °C). RuO2 electrodes promoted a-functionalization-assisted ß–O–4 cleavage, while Cu-based catalysts reduced aldehydes to al-cohols with faradaic efficiencies above 60%. Multidimensional NMR and quantitative ³¹P{¹H} NMR analyses revealed hydroxyl-rich oligomeric structures with aromatic and aliphatic functionalities relevant for polyurethane chemistry. The integrated catalytic–electrochemical route provides a modular pathway toward renewable aromatic polyols, lignin-derived resin precursors, and circular carbon value chains.
Keywords:
catalytic conversion, lignin, biobased products, green chemistry, industrial chemicals, electrochemical upgrading
Topic:
Biomass Conversion to Biomaterials and Chemicals
Subtopic:
Processes for bio-based chemicals and high-value compounds
Event:
34th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
6CV.6.20
Pages:
1017 - 1024
ISBN:
978-88-89407-27-1
Paper DOI:
10.5071/34thEUBCE2026-6CV.6.20
Price:
FREE
